296: Using Lasers for Bird Pest Management

Lasers may offer a chemical-free way to deter bird pests in vineyards and other agricultural systems. 

George Gallagher, Department Head of Animal Science at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, explains why bird pressure goes beyond crop loss, raising concerns about disease risks like salmonella, E. coli, and transmission of avian influenza. He shares results from a controlled study using a handheld laser, aimed at birds' feet, to measure how long it took them to respond. 

The research showed that different birds react differently. George highlights the importance of animal safety and the role of species-specific vision when evaluating new deterrent tools. Listen through the end to hear if the lasers work on rats. 

Resources:  

• 58: Barn Owls
• 114: Designing a Vineyard for Year-Round Sheep Grazing 
• 272: 30 Gophers a Night: Why Barn Owls Belong in Your Vineyard
• Cal Poly Animan Science Department
• George Gallagher
• George Gallagher  |Amanote Research
• George Gallagher | Research Gate 
• Tactical to Practical: The Human Component of Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution 

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