By Maile Matsimela
In the delicate balance between agriculture and nature, farmers face an ongoing battle against avian adversaries that threaten their livelihoods. While bird watchers might find joy in observing these creatures, crop and grain farmers experience a different reality when birds descend upon their fields in large numbers.
“Birds feed on crops, nest in the fields and can transmit diseases to the crops,” explains Makena Ngoato, experienced licensed hunting outfitter and wildlife trader specialising in sustainable wildlife management solutions. “This damage significantly reduces yields and causes economic losses for farmers who are already operating on thin margins.”
The problem extends beyond direct consumption of crops. According to Ngoato, birds disrupt the agricultural ecosystem in multiple ways.
“When birds prey on beneficial insects that would otherwise control pest populations, we see a surge in these pests. This creates a domino effect of damage throughout the farm,” Ngoato points out. “The challenges farmers face from bird damage are real and significant.”
Farmers have historically turned to various methods to protect their crops, but many approaches fall short. Poisoning, once common in some regions, has proven particularly problematic.
“The use of poisons like Fenthion on red-billed queleas in Kenyan rice fields might seem effective initially, but the environmental consequences are severe,” Ngoato warns. “These toxins kill indiscriminately, affecting raptors and other non-target species. They also pose risks to humans who might consume affected birds or crops.”
Scaring devices represent another common but ultimately ineffective approach.
“Farmers install scarecrows, reflective tape or noise-making devices hoping to keep birds away,” says Ngoato. “While these methods are more humane, birds quickly acclimate to them. They either return to the same fields or simply become a problem for neighbouring farms. It’s merely shifting the problem; not solving it.”
After years of witnessing the struggle between farmers and birds, Ngoato advocates for a balanced approach that respects both agricultural needs and environmental concerns.
“Bird hunting represents a sustainable, targeted solution that addresses the root problem while maintaining ecological balance,” Ngoato explains. “Unlike poisoning, which kills indiscriminately, or scaring techniques that merely relocate the problem, hunting enthusiasts and professional outfitters follow bag limits and target specific problem species.”
This approach offers numerous advantages over other methods. It’s cost-effective, environmentally responsible and provides immediate results.
“When hunters practice ethical, targeted bird hunting, they help maintain bird populations at levels that ecosystems can support,” says Ngoato. “It’s about balance; not elimination.”
Ngoato frames the issue within a broader context of population management and ecological sustainability.
“Just as we recognise the need to manage human population growth to prevent exceeding Earth’s carrying capacity, we must apply similar principles to wildlife management,” he argues, adding that uncontrolled bird populations can deplete resources, disrupt ecological balance and ultimately harm the very environments they depend on.
For Ngoato, the connection between hunting and conservation is clear.
“Hunting is not contrary to conservation – it’s an essential component of it when practiced responsibly,” he emphasises. “By controlling populations of damage-causing birds, we protect not only agricultural productivity but also public health and the long-term sustainability of our ecosystems.”
As debates about wildlife management and agricultural practices continue, Ngoato urges stakeholders to consider the practical realities facing farmers.
“We need solutions that work in the real world; not just in theory,” he concludes. “Bird hunters provide an effective, environmentally sound option for farmers struggling with avian damage. It’s time we recognised hunting as the valuable management tool it is.”
For farmers seeking practical solutions to bird-related crop damage, Ngoato recommends consulting with wildlife management professionals who understand both agricultural needs and ecological concerns.
More to read:
Opinion: Transformation in the wildlife sector cannot happen without a collective will
Opinion: Greedy, selfish and corrupt officials prevent transformation in the wildlife industry
