Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest Conference

Recent research efforts to control blackbird damage to corn in South Dakota are described. The primary species responsible is the red-winged blackbird, but other associated species include yellow-headed and Brewers blackbirds, common grackles, and brown-headed cowbirds. The birds’ biology and behavior are described, as is damage assessment in corn fields. Bird banding efforts have revealed typical bird migration patterns and movement. Trapping with Miller-type cannon nets and with modified Australian crow traps have shown success. Other damage control techniques considered, investigated, and/or evaluated include bird-resistant variety of crops, habitat management, use of frightening devices, roost sprays with the organophosphate DRC-632, and baiting with the fright-producing chemical DRC-1327.