Farmers across the country have been forced to sow their fields twice as a result of hungry crows interrupting their harvest plans. However, the birds remain undeterred.
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The issue has presented itself differently this year compared to previous years, leading the industry to refer to it as a “plague”.
Patrick Holper, a trader from Ingeldorf, explains the situation was exacerbated by new regulations on grains. Farmers are no longer allowed to coat the grains in methiocarb pesticides, which used to repel birds from eating the seeds.
Nowadays, grains are treated with Korit, which is designed to repel birds, but does not sufficiently penetrate into the corn and is therefore less effective, Holper adds.
If farmers need to re-sow their fields a third time, they will risk delaying their harvest too long for the crops to fully return. Negative effects on the harvest are virtually inevitable at this stage, says Holper. Farmers are also concerned over rumours that they will no longer be eligible for compensation due to crow damage.
In addition, the agricultural sector is suffering as a result of the halt in Ukrainian exports, which has had an impact on Western Europe. Holper says corn producers across the country are feeling the pressure, warning against focusing on the corn market in the east.
Concern is mounting for the future of the sector, as producers are unable to gauge future prices of their grains, and there is no guarantee there will be enough next year. But, as Holper points out, without grain, the dairy and meat industries will suffer, in what he calls a “vicious circle”. Many difficult decisions lie ahead, he concludes.
Holper predicts corn seed will jump up by 20% in price as a result.
Has the crow population increased? It is difficult to say, according to Holper, but one thing is certain - farmers are struggling more this year and experiencing more damage from the birds than in previous years.
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