Bird perches

Bird perches are resting places for predatory birds to rest and to look for preys; such as insect pests of cotton, peanuts, and cowpeas. Predatory birds prefer to look for prey in field crops where they have places to rest.

To make bird perches, use bamboo or wooden poles or tree branches. Erect either of these at regular intervals in the field.

To have live bird perches within the field, plant Setaria species (foxtail cultivars). These plants are found to be attractive to predatory birds. The birds feed on their seeds. In cotton field, plant Setaria in every 9th or 10th row of cotton. Once the birds are on the field, they prey on cotton bollworms and other insects.

External links

• MSU. Farmers take a leap of faith: Drop pesticides and costs, but not yield. http://fadr.msu.ru/rodale/agsieve/txt/vol5/6/art1.html
• CICR. Pest control in organic cotton. http://www.cicr.org.in/research_notes/pest_control_organic_cotton.pdf

Peer-reviewed