Most homeowners are familiar with the frustration of dealing with birds attacking their cherry trees. Birds swoop in and eat the cherries, leaving nothing for the tree owner to enjoy. While the birds may find the cherries delicious, the damage they can do to the cherry tree can be significant. In some cases, when birds are left unchecked, they can completely ruin a cherry tree’s crop. The good news is that there are a few steps anyone can take to keep birds out of their cherry tree and keeping them away.
Identify the Birds
The first step in keeping birds away from a cherry tree is to identify the particular bird that is causing the problem. Different kinds of birds are attracted to different kinds of fruit. Some of the most common birds that are a problem with cherry trees are starlings, blackbirds, crows, and mockingbirds. Knowing which kind of bird is targeting the cherry tree can help identify the best solution to the problem.
Set Physical Barriers
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep birds away from cherry trees is to set up physical barriers. A popular option is to set up a net over the tree. This net can be used to keep birds from getting in and eating the ripe cherries. It’s important to ensure that the net is set up correctly and securely, otherwise, the birds will easily find their way through it. Covering the net with something visual, such as a scarecrow or shiny mylar strips, can also help to discourage birds from getting in.
Chemical Deterrents
Another way to keep birds away from cherry trees is to use chemical deterrents. Bird repellents come in a variety of forms, including sprays, gels, and granules that are applied directly to the trees. However, it’s important to be careful when using these products as some of them can be toxic to birds. Additionally, using chemical deterrents may not always be the most effective solution, as birds can quickly become accustomed to the smell and return to the tree.
Ultrasonic Bird Repellents
Ultrasonic bird repellents are another way to deter birds from cherry trees. These devices emit sound waves that are intended to scare away birds from the area. Some ultrasonic devices are battery-operated and solar-powered, making them easy to set up and maintain. These devices are typically effective at keeping birds away from cherries, although there are mixed opinions on how successful they are in the long-term.
Hawk Kites
Using hawk kites is a popular, and visually impressive, way to keep birds away from cherry trees. The kite mimics the presence of an actual hawk, giving birds the notion that they are in danger and should stay away. Hawk kites can be set up to move in the wind and emit a sound, giving the birds the sense that they are not safe. While using hawk kites is effective, it takes some skill to set them up correctly.
Visual Repellents
Another way to keep birds away from cherry trees is to use visual deterrents. These can include anything from balloons, bright flags, and scarecrows to strings of reflective tape. Visual deterrents work as the reflection, movement, and bright colors of the objects will scare away the birds. While these kind of deterrents are popular, over time, the birds may become accustomed to them and will return to the tree.
Noise Repellents
Noise deterrents, such as loud noises and speakers, can also be used to keep birds away from cherry trees. These makeshift audio speakers can be set up to emit loud noises, giving birds the sense that they are being watched or threatened. It’s important to note that any kind of sound stimulus should not be used full-time, as this could have a negative impact on other wildlife and the environment.
Remove the Attraction
The best way to keep birds away from cherry trees is to remove the attraction in the first place. This means picking cherries as soon as they become ripe, before the birds have a chance to eat them. Additionally, trim any branches close to fences, buildings, or power lines that birds may use as a landing ground for the tree. Pruning the tree can also help to make it less appealing to birds.
Birdhouses
Another way to keep birds away from cherry trees is to provide them with an alternative food source. Birdhouses can be hung near cherry trees in order to attract birds away from the fruit. The birdhouses should be filled with bird feed such as cracked corn and sunflower seeds, which are attractive to a range of birds. This can help to reduce the number of birds targeting the cherry tree.
Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are a type of humane bird deterrent that can be installed around cherry trees. These spikes are designed to prevent birds from landing on the tree branches, eliminating their ability to eat the fruit. Bird spikes come in various sizes and are typically easy to install, making them an effective deterrent.
Chemical Sprays
Using chemical sprays on cherry trees is one of the most effective ways to keep birds away. These sprays are made from natural ingredients that are designed to taste or smell bad to birds. When applied to the tree, the birds will avoid the cherry tree, which can dramatically reduce the number of birds in the area. However, it’s important to note that some chemical sprays can be harmful to the environment, so they should be used sparingly.
Cover the Trees
Covering the cherry tree with a sheet, such as tarp or cloth, is another effective way to keep birds away. This can be done as a temporary solution while other deterrents are being used. Covering the tree will keep birds from getting to the fruit and eating it. Additionally, it will reduce the amount of damage caused by the birds pecking at the branches.
Grow Fast-bearing Vines
Growing fast-bearing vines near the cherry tree can help to deter birds from the area. Vines, such as passionflower and morning glory, will produce fruit shortly after being planted. This can help to provide birds with another source of food, reducing their need to target the cherry tree. Additionally, the vine fruit can provide a tasty treat for humans and can be used to make jams and jellies.
