Noise and Nuisance
Noise and Nuisance Research Reports
CSL - Review of international research literature regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives
This report was produced for Defra by Central Science Laboratories (CSL).
It is recognised that bird scaring devices are an important way of protecting young and valuable crops. Auditory devices, for example those which imitate the sound of gunfire, use sirens or mimic the distress call of the bird, are now commonly used on agricultural land. The National Farmer’s Union (NFU) has produced a Code of Practice, designed to minimise aggravation whilst allowing effective crop protection. However, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), together with local authorities, are receiving increased numbers of complaints about the noise nuisance caused by auditory bird scaring devices. Therefore, Defra commissioned Central Science Laboratory to review and evaluate the current state of knowledge in order to provide a sound scientific basis for policy decisions and guidance material.
- Paper on bird scaring techniques
(200 KB) - References for bird scaring paper
(135 KB)
Alternatively, copies of this report which include pictures, a list of all reviewed research and literature together with the details of those consulted can be requested by sending an e-mail to noise@defra.gsi.gov.uk or by writing to Defra, Noise and Nuisance Policy, Air and Environmental Quality Division, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 4/H17 Ashdown House, 123 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6DE.
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Page last modified:
10 March 2004
Page published 10 December 2003