Tiny Kestrels Help Keep Cherry Orchards Thriving

Quick Smiles:

• American kestrels are being used as natural pest control in cherry orchards.
• Farmers see less crop damage and foodborne illness thanks to the birds.
• Kestrels are more effective and beloved than traditional pest methods.

The American kestrel, North America’s smallest falcon, dazzles with its colorful feathers and sharp features.

This beautiful bird is now at the heart of a unique solution for cherry farmers seeking healthier crops.

A Michigan State University study found that encouraging American kestrels to nest in orchards reduces crop damage and helps combat foodborne illnesses that can come from birds.

With fewer rodents and small birds nibbling on fruit, the kestrels have proven to be a natural and effective line of defense.

“Kestrels are not very expensive to bring into orchards, but they work pretty well,” said Olivia Smith, the study’s lead author and assistant professor of horticulture at Michigan State University. “And people just like kestrels a lot, so I think it’s an attractive strategy.”

Orchards with kestrels saw an impressive 81% decrease in crop damage and a 66% drop in bird droppings on fruit trees.

Washington farmer Brad Thatcher noticed, “There’s very little fecal damage from small songbirds at that time of year versus the fall.”

Farmers usually face major losses from birds, sometimes turning to chemicals and nets, but kestrels offer a much friendlier and highly effective option.

Even foodborne pathogen levels were far lower in orchards with kestrel nest boxes, making the fruit safer for everyone to enjoy.

Nature and farming team up perfectly with the help of this tiny, mighty bird!

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