BIRD DAMAGE AT AQUACULTURE FACILITIES

W. Paul Gorenzel, Staff Research Associate, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, California 95616
Fred S. Conte, Aquaculture Extension Specialist, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California 95616
Terrell P. Salmon, Wildlife Extension Specialist, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, California 95616

Document Type Article

Abstract

Reduction of the damage caused by fish-eating birds requires accurate bird identification and some knowledge of avian biology and habits. The open-water areas and large concentrations of aquatic livestock at aquaculture facilities are natural attractants to many birds. Birds can have a significant economic impact on the culture of aquatic products including fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. For our purpose here, we will refer to these birds as fish-eating birds, and the aquatic products as fish.