HIGH FREQUENCY SOUND DEVICES LACK EFFICACY IN REPELLING BIRDS

Authors

William A. Erickson, Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, University of California, Davis, CaliforniaFollow
Rex E. Marsh, Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, University of California, Davis, California
Terrell P. Salmon, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California, Davis, CaliforniaFollow

Date of this Version

3-1-1992

Abstract

Ultrasonic or high-frequency sound-producing devices are marketed as a scaring or frightening method for bird control. Although inaudible to humans, most birds also do not hear in the ultrasonic frequency ranges of above 20,000 Hz, thus the credibility of advertised claims raises questions. A review of efficacy studies conducted and published by a number of researchers fails to demonstrate the usefulness of such bird control devices.