Bird Control in Vineyards: Smart Solutions to Protect Your Crop
Every year, New Zealand winegrowers lose millions of dollars to bird damage, especially during the crucial ripening period. Large flocks of starlings, silvereyes, blackbirds and sparrows can quickly strip vines of their fruit, particularly red and sweet grape varieties.
With increasing labour shortages and rising costs, vineyard managers are now turning to modern deterrent technology to solve this age-old problem.
Common Bird Species in Vineyards
Starlings – eat whole grapes, travel in large flocks.
Silvereyes (Waxeyes) – peck and suck grapes, leading to rot.
Sparrows – adaptable and hard to scare, eat seeds and grapes.
Blackbirds & Thrushes – smaller numbers but persistent feeders.
Best Vineyard Bird Control Methods in 2025
1. Birdzout Auto Lasers
Birdzout laser deterrents are among the most effective, neighbour-friendly options on the market. These systems automatically sweep across vineyard blocks, disrupting birds' visual navigation and creating a highly effective exclusion zone.
Covers up to 15 hectares per unit (Ultimate MK2)
Programmable zones, timers & movement patterns
Silent and solar-compatible
Best for: Medium–high bird pressure areas
2. Birdzout Bioacoustics
Target specific bird species with biologically accurate calls and distress sounds. These systems prevent habituation through randomised playback and regular sound changes.
Covers up to 10 hectares
Controlled via the Birdzout mobile app
Ideal when combined with visual or laser deterrents
Best for: Edges, nesting zones, and early intervention
3. Gas Guns & Pyrotechnics
Traditional but still effective, Purivox gas guns and pyrotechnic launchers offer a powerful audible scare. Ideal for open areas but less suited near residential zones.
Gas guns cover up to 10 hectares
Pyrotechnics useful for mobile, manual deterrence
Best for: High bird pressure zones far from homes
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4. Predator Kites & Visual Scares
Flying kites, scare balloons, and reflective tape provide a low-cost way to back up your main deterrents. Predator kites mimic hawks and falcons in flight.
Works best when rotated or moved regularly
Use alongside sound or laser deterrents
Best for: Supplementary deterrence
5. Bird Netting
Still widely used, especially on outer vineyard rows. While netting provides a physical barrier, it’s labour intensive, expensive, and increasingly avoided in favour of more efficient methods.
Approx. $1250 per hectare per season
Reduces access but does not guarantee complete protection
Challenges with installation, spray access, and storage
Best for: Extreme bird pressure areas or sweet grape blocks
The Power of Combining Methods (Synergy)
Research and field experience show that using multiple deterrents together, especially those targeting different senses, produces better results.
For example: A combination of Birdzout Auto Lasers + Bioacoustics can effectively deter birds by disrupting both their vision and communication systems.
This layered approach creates an environment where birds feel unsafe and move elsewhere.
Where to Start? Let’s Build a Custom Plan
Bird control is not one-size-fits-all.
The best strategy depends on:
Bird species causing damage
Grape variety (red/sweet = higher risk)
Vineyard layout and terrain
Existing deterrents
Contact us with your vineyard map or location, terrain details, and bird species info, and our team will provide a free customised recommendation for your vineyard.
Protect Your Vineyard This Season
Don't let birds eat into your profits. Birdzout has helped vineyards across NZ increase yields and reduce bird damage with smart, proven solutions. Whether you're battling starlings or sparrows, we’ll help you find the right tools for the job.
Talk to our team today: 0800 654 320
Or email us: hello@birdzout.com
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