Laser Scarecrows in Agriculture: An Innovative Solution for Bird Pests

Abstract

Avian pests threaten global agricultural productivity by damaging crops. Traditional deterrents like scare balloons and auditory methods are ineffective due to habituation, while exclusion netting is labor-intensive and costly. Inhumane practices like avicides also pose ethical concerns. Laser bird deterrents offer a cutting-edge solution, utilizing software-powered cameras to detect bird presence and emitting a 532 nm green light to startle them away without habituation. These devices, equipped with batteries and solar panels, are portable and sustainable, suitable for multifaceted bird control strategies and potentially as standalone tools by increasing device density. Ongoing research is vital to optimize this technology, exploring daytime applications, expanding coverage and adapting devices for diverse crops and pests. Laser bird deterrents represent a promising advancement in agricultural pest management, providing an effective, humane and environmentally sustainable approach to mitigate avian damage to crops.