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Wild bird deterrents becoming more popular to protect turkeys from HPAI

Wild bird deterrents are becoming more popular among turkey growers looking to protect flocks against highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association executive director Ashley Kohls says biosecurity remains a top priority.

“And making sure their staff is trained. But they’re looking more towards bird deterrents and ways to keep the birds away from the barns, because it is the number one way for commercial turkeys to be exposed to high-path. And especially premises that are near bodies of water or wetlands.”

Minnesota recently reported it’s first case of high-path avian flu in several months as waterfowl, a primary carrier of the virus, migrate south.

Kohls tells Brownfield growers are doing everything possible to prevent the disease.

“But there’s just certain times of the year when wild bird migration is so intense that sometimes it’s inevitable.”

Kohls says turkey growers are using lasers and large windsocks to try and scare wild birds away.