Just Say No

Life at Diva Crows is divided up into seasons, the most notable being Baby Season, when we are inundated with orphaned birds. But first comes a more painful time: herbicide season. At this time of year, people put all sorts of toxins in their yards. Weed killer and insect spray get rid of much more than dandelions and spiders — they kill birds. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Audubon Society, about 7 million birds are killed each year by household lawn pesticides.

Fish Crow with pesticide or herbicide poisoning.

We currently have a grackle and fish crow who have substantial nerve damage. The crow cannot stand; the grackle flips over on its back for no reason. We can only hope that these birds are tough enough to pull through. A beautiful Thrasher was not so lucky and passed away about a day after it was brought to us.

Don’t be fooled by reassurances on lawn care products that they are “safe” or won’t harm animals. Whatever testing is done on mammals. Birds have a completely different physiology and are very susceptible to toxins. Whether they eat insects that have been poisoned or come into contact with spray on grass or foliage, birds will get sick. They will be unable to fly, foraging for food will be difficult, and eventually they can no longer stand. It is a slow and painful death. Even if the birds are not directly affected, killing off bugs reduces their food supply. Instead of trying to get rid of the bugs, attract insect-eating birds. They are much prettier than a plastic bottle under your sink and are just as deadly to bugs.

There are natural alternatives to chemical sprays. I’ve had luck with vinegar and salt. We use diatomaceous earth in the rehab to battle ants in the summer. Weeding is good exercise. Whatever solution you come up with, the birds will thank you.

Image taken from Beyond Pesticides