A bird’s eye view: fruit grower interest in adoption of raptor nest boxes

Bird damage is a serious problem for many fruit growers. Utilizing nest boxes to attract natural predators of fruit-eating birds is frequently effective in lowering bird damage, as well as increasing fruit marketability. The adoption of a conservation practice, however, depends on a grower’s level of interest. What is the level of interest in nest boxes, and how do growers perceive the influence of natural predators on the farm ecosystem? To answer these questions we conducted an online national survey of cherry and blueberry growers focusing on potential interactions between key farm variables. We found a surprising consistency in perceptions of the functioning of the farm ecosystem and a high level of agreement on how natural predators affect other production factors. Growers typically perceived nest boxes to lower bird damage and pest pressure, and to raise fruit quality and income. They also indicated a significant interest in installing nest boxes, and strong agreement that extension and outreach related to the costs, benefits and timing of implementation of nest boxes would be helpful.