Intro: The increased use of floating gear in commercial shellfish operations has led to a greater presence of birds, resulting in significant guano accumulation on the floats. Since 2015, health authorities in several states have tested water samples around these operations, occasionally detecting elevated coliform levels. In 2021, eight consumers in Rhode Island were hospitalized with Campylobacter infections, prompting the closure of two shellfish farms. As a result, new regulations are requiring the farmers to have a written operational plan outlining bird deterrence measures. Traditional deterrents, such as kites, cannons, spikes, and zips, have often proven ineffective and costly over time.
Purpose: Over the past 6 years of direct R&D, we have developed a non-lethal, sound-based technology to deter birds from congregating in commercial agriculture, aquaculture, power substations, food processing plants, and dairy operations.
Method: Our technology is unique in its ability to disrupt and “jam” bird communication. Unlike traditional deterrents that rely on fear, our system targets instinctual behaviors crucial for survival. Birds feel unsafe when they cannot effectively communicate and will then naturally leave the area. The technology includes three setting allowing the ability to focus on specific bird species based on their communication patterns. Our technology offers a deterrent technique birds do not habituate to.
Key Findings: Our technology has been successfully deployed across a variety of commercial agricultural settings, reducing, or eliminating bird-related damage and contributing to increased yields, from cherries and grapes to walleye and koi. Additionally, it has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing bird presence and the associated health risks in power stations, food processing facilities, and dairy farms. At the time of this submission, we are working with several oyster farms to prevent birds from roosting on equipment, thereby minimizing contamination risks and supporting regulatory compliance regarding active bird deterrence.
Future Implications: Our non-lethal bird deterrent system is a massive step forward in helping commercial shellfish operations meet and exceed health related regulatory obligations, protect workers, be “good” neighbors and increase operational efficiencies.