Florida blueberry farmers are having a spring season, not only because of warmer than typical weather, but also because of the hungry appetites of cedar waxwings. According to Bay News 9, the birds have not migrated as expected, and instead are feasting on farmers' crops. Farmers have been using cannons, balloons and other techniques to discourage the birds, but with only limited success. Officials from the Florida Farm Bureau are considering seeking permits to shoot the birds.
Cedar waxwings are largely frugivorous and feed on different types of fruits and berries, often staying in the same area until local plants are stripped of fruit. They are protected under the Migratory Bird Act, however, and anyone illegally harming the birds could face severe fines and other penalties.
Do you think farmers should be granted limited, temporary permits to kill birds to protect their crops? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Blueberries
Photo © Scott Schopieray
Comments
Killing a bird – or an entire flock of birds – should be the absolute last resort in any situation. While I understand the blueberry farmers do not want to lose their entire crop to these birds, it is spring – breeding season – and to kill the feeding birds also kills the nestlings. The entire local population could be wiped out. Surely netting or some other barrier to keep the birds away from the berries would be a better solution.