How to Scare Birds Away From Apple Trees

Apple trees appeal to birds -- they provide food, shelter and nesting spaces. A few birds may not harm the tree, but large numbers of birds can damage your tree or create an unsanitary environment. Bird feathers and droppings can infect the apples. You can take a number of steps to reduce or eliminate a bird infestation. Try one or a combination of ideas until you clear the birds from your apple trees.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shiny metal objects
• Bird houses, feeders and baths
• Bird deterrent system
• Sprinkler system

1. Hang shiny objects from the apple tree. Birds do not like the flashes of light that occur when the wind blows. Old CDs and pie pans are good choices. Wrap tinsel or metallic ribbons around the branches to add more flash.

2. Move any items that may attract birds to the area. This includes bird baths, feeders or bird houses. Make another area of your yard attractive to the birds -- one that is away from your apple trees.

3. Plant other items that are attractive to birds. Other fruit trees or flowering trees may be more appealing than your apple trees, such crabapple trees and berry bushes.

4. Install motion sensor noise makers. This will emit a noise that scares the birds and drives them away from your trees. You can find a variety of bird repellents, including ones that create sonic bird calls that are threatening.

5. Set up a sprinkler system that intermittently sprays the tree. Underground systems with multiple sprayers are best. This will deter the birds from nesting or perching in the tree.

Tips & Warnings

• Bird repellent systems and underground sprinklers are expensive, so try the other methods before investing in these systems.

References

• 8 Practical Ideas to Rid Birds from Your Fruit Trees