Vertebrate Pests and Biocontrol in IPM pt.2

Wild Pigs

Escaped farm pigs from 1760s + hunting releases in 1920s.

Diet of Wild Pigs

Omnivores - eat plants and animals (even baby farm animals).

Damage caused by Wild Pigs

$1.5 billion/year in crop & land damage; tear up soil and harm habitats; spread 5 dangerous waterborne diseases.

Signs of Wild Pigs

Aggressive behavior, tusks, rooted-up soil.

Control of Wild Pigs

Considered game animals - require a license and tag to hunt.

Fencing for Wild Pigs

Works only if properly installed (strong enough).

Box traps

For single pigs.

Corral traps

For groups of pigs.

Avian (Bird) Pests

Eat buds, fruit, nuts - especially near wild areas.

Common Bird Pests

Crows, European starlings, House finches, Crowned sparrows.

Control of Bird Pests

Best option: Physical methods.

Netting and cups

Used around plants to protect from bird pests.

Frightening tools for Bird Pests

Noisemakers, scare-eye balloons (some birds adapt over time).

Chemical repellents for Bird Pests

Grape-scented sprays (methyl anthranilate) - limited success.

Biological controls for Bird Pests

Use hawks, owls, cats - can hunt and scare birds; needs roosts, hiding spots for predators.

Vertebrates as Biocontrol Agents

Natural animals that help control pest populations by eating pests.

Types of Biocontrol Agents

Birds of Prey (Raptors), Snakes, Road Runners.

Examples of Birds of Prey

Kestrels, Red-tailed hawks, Barn owls.

Hunting behavior of Birds of Prey

Active hunters - eat daily.

Examples of Snakes

Gopher snakes, Kingsnakes, Rattlesnakes.

Hunting behavior of Snakes

Slow eaters - hunt less often.

Road Runners

Opportunistic - eat insects and small animals.

Tips for Supporting Native Species

Protect their habitat; add nest boxes or perches to attract them.