At South Africas Vergenoegd Wine Estate, Indian Runner ducks are employed to control pests in the vineyards. These ducks can clear up to 2.45 acres of insects and snails per day, preventing damage to the grapevines. The ducks are herded twice a day by a dedicated duck-keeper and are tall enough to r

FAQ

1. What is the role of ducks in pest control at the South African winery?

The ducks are used as a natural form of pest control at the South African winery. They are allowed to roam freely in the vineyards and eat insects, snails, and other pests that would otherwise harm the grapevines.

2. How do the ducks benefit the winery?

The ducks benefit the winery in multiple ways. First, they provide a natural and environmentally friendly form of pest control, which reduces the need for harmful pesticides. Second, their manure acts as a natural fertilizer for the soil. Finally, the ducks also serve as a tourist attraction, drawing visitors to the winery who are interested in seeing the unique method of pest control.

3. What type of ducks are used for pest control at the winery?

The winery uses Indian Runner ducks, which are known for their excellent pest control abilities and their friendly nature towards humans. They are also able to navigate the vineyards easily due to their long, slender bodies.

4. How are the ducks trained for their role in pest control?

The ducks are not formally trained for their role in pest control. Instead, they are simply released into the vineyards and allowed to do what comes naturally to them – eating pests. However, the winery does take care to ensure that the ducks are well-fed and that their basic needs are met.

5. Are there any challenges associated with using ducks for pest control?

While using ducks for pest control is generally considered to be an effective and environmentally friendly method, there are some challenges associated with it. For example, the ducks may not be able to control all types of pests, and there is always a risk that they may damage the grapevines themselves. Additionally, the winery must take care to ensure that the ducks do not become a nuisance to neighboring properties or cause any other types of environmental damage.