Meet Nature’s Ultimate Orchard Guardian: Michigan Cherry Growers Discover a Talon’d Protector!

Northern Michigan fruit growers are finding a unique way to protect their cherry orchards: by inviting American kestrels to nest nearby. Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that adding kestrel boxes can deter pest birds that feast on cherries each summer. This approach not only helps reduce crop loss but also improves food safety.

Typically, bird damage in cherry orchards can run anywhere from 5% to 30%, impacting growers in states like Michigan, Washington, California, and Oregon. Traditional methods to keep birds away can be costly and aren’t always effective. On the other hand, installing kestrel boxes has shown tremendous financial benefit. For every dollar spent on these boxes, farmers could save between $84 and $357 in harvested cherries.

The latest research indicates that kestrels don’t just scare away unwanted birds; they might also help in reducing fecal contamination in orchards. With less bird droppings, the risk of foodborne pathogens decreases, making the cherries safer to eat before they even reach consumers.

Olivia Smith, an assistant professor at MSU, highlights that kestrels are territorial and will chase away pest birds, contributing to both crop protection and cleanliness. In their study, researchers compared cherry trees with kestrel boxes to those without. They found a significant reduction—about three-fold—in bird droppings on trees near kestrel boxes.

Interestingly, this method works particularly well for cherries. Smith explains that the timing aligns perfectly since cherries ripen when kestrels are nesting. However, this might not translate as effectively to other crops, like blueberries, indicating that local conditions matter.

Farmers in the Traverse City area are seeing promising results from this biocontrol strategy. Plus, the kestrel boxes have also attracted other beneficial birds, like screech owls, that help keep rodent populations down.

This innovative approach could lead to a shift in how growers think about pest management. Rather than relying solely on chemicals or physical deterrents, attracting natural predators like kestrels can offer a sustainable solution for both crops and ecosystems.

For more detailed information on how to build kestrel boxes, you can visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

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