Efficacy of low-cost physical methods to reduce bird damage on oilseed rape in Golestan and North Khorasan provinces

Low-cost physical methods were evaluated in oilseed rape farms of Golestan and North Khorasan provinces. Experiments were conducted in 400 m2 plots using Completely Randomized Block Design with three replications. Treatments were consisted of: 1. Spanish tape, (EcoBirdNex), 2. Large white plastic bags, 3. white nylon tape, 4. Nylon thread with white yoonolit pieces, 5. Plastic tube, 6. Control (no treatment). In autumn 2019 and 2020, samplings were conducted using ten quadrates of 1×1 m2, 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks after treatments. Total number of damaged and undamaged plants were registered and the percentage of damaged plants was calculated accordingly. Treatments showed significant difference with control and effects of treatments was significant in North Khorasan and in Golestan (P<0.05). Effects of weeks was significant in Golestan in both years, and in North Khorasan in 2019 (P<0.05). In view of preparation of treatments and economic costs, treatments of plastic bags and Spanish tape were effective and applicable with two functions of physical sight barrier and making nuisance simultaneously, with no harm on the environment.