Falcons and hawks are now serving as guardians of the grapes at Rathfinny Wine Estate in Sussex, England, as part of a trial aimed at protecting their vineyards from birds that threaten to consume the fruit before the harvest. This initiative comes as the estate prepares for a highly anticipated wine harvest in 2025, following an exceptionally hot summer that is expected to yield a promising vintage.
The winery has engaged a specialized falconry team to let trained birds of prey patrol the skies from dawn until dusk. Among the proteges are falcons, hawks, and even a Chilean blue eagle, all tasked with scaring away hungry seagulls, pigeons, and crows to minimize losses—effectively reducing the need for over 300 kilometers of plastic netting traditionally used to protect the grapes.
Sarah Driver, co-founder and co-owner of Rathfinny, stated that the plastic nets, while effective, require replacement every three to five years and necessitate numerous plastic clips for installation, creating unnecessary environmental waste. Therefore, the decision to deploy birds as a more sustainable solution is aligned with their commitment as a certified B Corp.
The vineyard expects to commence harvesting on September 25, ten days earlier than usual, utilizing trained birds of various species. For instance, a hybrid falcon, a cross between a peregrine and a Gyrfalcon, is being used to chase away larger birds while other hybrids ward off smaller ones. Harris’s hawks and the imposing Chilean blue eagle are on patrol at the property’s perimeter, serving as a deterrent against crows.
Despite the birds of prey’s role in protecting tightly-packed vines, Driver reassured that nearby hedgerows offer ample food sources for the birds, thus allowing them to coexist with the vineyard’s ecosystem.
This innovative approach aligns with previous research indicating that the introduction of birds of prey in vineyards can lead to significant reductions in grape loss. Similar initiatives have previously been tested in California, showcasing the effectiveness of natural solutions in agriculture.
For more about the promising developments in the UK wine industry, visit these articles on harvest prospects: