What is perhaps the best control method for bird damage to turf?

Controlling the soil-inhabiting insects the birds feed on is often the most effective approach to manage bird damage to turf. This method addresses the root cause of the problem— the availability of food sources for the birds. When soil-inhabiting insects, such as grubs or larvae, are reduced in population through appropriate pest control measures, birds will have less incentive to forage on the turf, ultimately minimizing the damage they cause.

While trapping birds, using scare tactics, or relocating them may provide temporary relief, these methods do not eliminate the underlying issue of insect availability. Trapping and relocating can be labor-intensive and may not provide a long-term solution since new birds can move into the area. Similarly, scare tactics may temporarily deter birds from an area, but they can become accustomed to these methods over time. Addressing the insect population is a more sustainable and effective strategy for long-term control of bird damage in turf.