Initial implementation and assessment of pyroligneous acid as pest bird deterrent in a New Zealand pest-exclusion fenced sanctuary.

Pyroligneous acid (wood vinegar) as a bird deterrent to manage pest birds invading a predator-free fenced sanctuary was investigated in this research. Predator exclusion fences have become a common conservation and restoration tool in New Zealand. Rotopiko’s wetland complex is a fenced sanctuary established by the National Wetlands Trust. The complex is challenged with large flocks of exotic birds: sparrows (Passer domesticus) and starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) roosting within the pest-exclusion fence, causing severe ecological impacts to the site. In this study, the community of roosting birds was monitored before and after the application of pyroligneous acid in two equivalent patches of bush, treatment and control sites.