Bird Damage to Fruit Crops

Fruit production is a critical component of the global economy and fruit consumption is important to improving human health. Production of blueberries, cherries, and grapes continues to increase and 'Honeycrisp' apple supply and demand are climbing. For example, the top ten cherry-exporting nations produce a collective annual yield valued at more than one billion dollars. An important problem for fruit growers is losses to birds that eat fruit. We work with fruit growers in Michigan to investigate ways to reduce bird damage to fruit crops. With a grant from the Michigan Tree Fruit Commission, through a Specialty Crop Block Program administered by Michigan Dept. of Agriculture, we are conducting a study to assess patterns of pest damage and potential management strategies in high-density sweet cherries and apples.​​​​