Successful test of bird repellent robot in orchard

A test conducted by CLM Research and Advice confirms that laser beams are an effective method to scare away birds from orchards. The innovative Agrilaser bird repellent robot provides an automated solution and does not cause nuisance to nearby residents.

CLM tested the Agrilaser Autonomic in an apple and pear orchard last summer. The results were positive. Before the test, the farmer experienced major damages from crows. After the deployment of the automated laser, the birds disappeared from the property, significantly reducing damages to the fruits.

The fruit grower Arnold Bosgoed is positive: “After the deployment of the laser it became a lot quieter. The large groups of crows disappeared. I am very satisfied with the automated laser. The system is noiseless and the birds do not seem to get used to the laser beam. The installation was easy and it requires no maintenance.”

The developers of the Agrilaser, Bird Control Group started production of the system due to the successful test. Joost Lommen, CLM Researcher: “These results provide scope for testing the system on a larger scale.”

The operating principle

Birds perceive the laser beam as an imminent physical danger to which, unlike conventional techniques, birds do not get accustomed. A trajectory is programmed via a laptop or tablet, resulting in random sweeps in the designated area. Depending on weather conditions, an area of 100 hectare to 1,200 hectare can be kept bird free. Thanks to the features, the robot can be configured to the dimensions of multiple areas and the desired operating periods throughout the day.

Steinar Henskes, CEO of Bird Control Group: “We are very pleased with the positive results of this test. Our team have worked for three years on the development of our laser technology, resulting in the Agrilaser Autonomic. We see many opportunities to deploy this system on agricultural land, large buildings and industrial sites.”

Bird Control Group

Bird Control Group is a rapidly growing manufacturer of innovative bird repellent systems for the agricultural sector, airports and industrial sites. Bird Control Group has been awarded the Golden Opportunity 2014, most innovative company of Holland and finalist of the Rising Star Award, Deloitte Technology Fast 50 competition. Bird Control Group is part of Yes!Delft, the incubator program of the Technical University Delft.

CLM Research and Advice

CLM is an independent consultancy working in the field of sustainable food, farming and rural development. CLM works for governments, farming organisations, food companies as well as NGOs. Among many other issues, CLM is involved in research on wildlife management, fauna damage and bird repellent methods in the agricultural sector.