Anything else is for the birds

Hassle-free, and highly effective, Avian Control from Grochem^®, is a stable, humane bird repellent that stores and pours well, even in cold conditions. 

Hamish Mackie, Fruitfed Technical Horticultural Representative, says feedback he’s had is that Avian Control has worked particularly well. “It’s easy to use and it’s doing the job it’s intended for.”

He recommends a short, sharp use application period – around bud burst when bird pressure is greatest.

Richard Bawden, Technical Services and Development Manager for Grochem says both the taste of Avian Control, and the ultraviolet stain, are effective in creating an avoidance response in birds.

Avian Control temporarily irritates birds’ trigeminal nerve system, causing birds to feel stressed and uncomfortable. That subsides when the birds leave the treated area.

Avian Control’s ease of use has been appreciated by the team at Katikati-based Tanner Spraying, which sprays over 600 hectares of kiwifruit orchards. Owner Ross Tanner is a savvy operator who successfully navigated the threat that was (and is) Psa. His confidence in the industry today is expressed in his ownership of two kiwifruit orchards in addition to his spraying business. He believes the future for the industry is bright. “Kiwifruit is strong and there’s a lot of potential for more development.” 

Ross says Avian Control is popular with his team. “The boys enjoyed using it.” 

Tanner Spraying used Avian Control for the first time last season, with Ross noting it performed very well. “Avian Control stored well, poured easily, and mixed smoothly in the tank, making it simple to use.” 

Richard Bawden, says grape extract-based, Avian Control’s unique formulation stabilises the active ingredient (methyl anthranilate) structure enhancing repellent response and allowing lower a.i. rates. “There’s also increased resistance to UV breakdown, increasing periods of effectiveness and protecting the vulnerable buds.” He says, if unprotected, bird damage can take out an entire block.