Fruit crop protection as the Eastern Koels move in for summer

Special thanks to Jo (Robertson Garden Club member) for sharing these images from her garden.

Female Eastern Koel in the Boysenberry patch

As we head into the warmer months, the Southern Highlands becomes a popular spot not just for people but for wildlife, too. One of the more notorious visitors we can expect during this time is the migratory Eastern Koel. These birds, known for their distinct calls, arrive in the region around spring and early summer. Though they are a fascinating part of our ecosystem, they can pose a significant threat to ripening crops, especially with summer fruits like boysenberries on the horizon. Now is the perfect time to take proactive steps to protect your garden bounty from Koels and other fruit-loving birds.

The Eastern Koel is a migratory bird that travels to Australia each spring to breed and forage. They are frugivorous, meaning fruit is a primary part of their diet, especially during breeding season. They’re especially fond of soft, ripening fruits, which can spell trouble for farmers and gardeners with crops like boysenberries, raspberries, and other summer fruits.

As your boysenberries and other fruit crops ripen, they become a prime target for Koels. These birds have a knack for finding fruit at its sweetest and are capable of eating large amounts in a single sitting. Here’s a list of crops that are most vulnerable to Eastern Koels and other fruit-eating birds:

• Boysenberries

• Blackberries

• Blueberries

• Cherries

• Stone Fruits (like peaches, plums, and apricots)

Male Easter Koel

Top Methods for Protecting Your Crops

Netting

Bird netting is one of the most effective ways to protect your crops from Koels and other birds. Make sure to use a tightly woven, UV-resistant net to prevent birds from entering. Cover your plants entirely and ensure that the netting is secured at the base so birds cannot get in from below. When installing netting, remember to keep it slightly elevated above the plants so birds won’t peck at the fruit through the gaps.

Image: From the Robertson garden of Kathy "My Productive Backyard"

Visual Deterrents

Koels are wary of shiny, reflective surfaces, so consider hanging reflective tape, old CDs, or aluminum foil strips around your garden. These visual deterrents work best when they are allowed to move freely, creating flashes of light that can startle and discourage birds from approaching.

Plant Decoys

Planting a decoy patch of berries or using decoy fruits placed on posts can sometimes distract Koels from your main crop. By providing an alternative food source away from your garden, you might reduce the damage done to your primary crops.

Hawk Kites or Scare Owls

Using lifelike decoys of predatory birds, such as hawks or owls, can sometimes work to scare Koels away. These decoys work best when they are periodically moved to maintain the illusion of a threat. Hawk kites that move in the wind can be especially effective since they mimic the flight pattern of a real hawk.

Be Proactive This Season

With crops ripening, it’s essential to act now to protect them. Eastern Koels are persistent, but with these strategies in place, you can keep your garden and berry crops safe and enjoy a bountiful harvest without having to share too much with our feathered friends.

By understanding these birds and preparing your garden accordingly, you can coexist with the natural world while safeguarding the hard work you’ve put into growing your produce. Happy gardening, and may your berries stay safe from hungry visitors!

With these strategies in place, you can enjoy a fruitful season without losing your hard-earned produce to these persistent visitors. Happy gardening, and here’s to a successful, bird-proof harvest!