Introducing Napa Valley's Secret Weapon: Vineyard Owls

To produce good grapes, vineyard owners have to maintain constant vigilance over their crops. While they can’t control the weather, they can prevent pests like rodents from damaging the plants. Some farmers use rodenticides to rid their fields of the grape-gnawing critters, but these sprays are filled with harmful chemicals—which is why some Napa Valley proprietors are using barn owls as a natural pest control strategy.

In the Great Big Story video below, wildlife biologist Carrie Wendt explains why barn owls and vineyards make a natural pair:

[h/t The Kid Should See This]