Norwegian plum growers fear devastating bullfinch attacks

A tiny red-breasted bird weighing just 25 grams is causing major headaches for Norwegian plum producers, with some farmers describing the threat of bullfinch attacks as “heart-stopping,” reports Dagbladet.

While spring and summer typically bring blooming fruit trees, Norwegian plum growers have faced years of declining yields—largely due to bullfinches, according to a press release from fruit distributor BAMA. The birds, which attack in flocks, can devour up to 25 plum buds per minute, quickly devastating entire orchards.

“I love small birds, but a bullfinch in winter gives me a racing pulse,” said Steinar Langesæther, a plum farmer since 1988 who has lost multiple harvests to the birds. “You know what’s at stake.”

Though the problem may sound trivial, BAMA emphasizes that bullfinch raids are a serious threat to producers. This year, however, many farmers—including Langesæther—have so far avoided attacks, raising hopes for a strong plum season.

“Right now, things look much better,” said Sivert Glærum, head of Norwegian plums at BAMA. “This year’s plan is around 1,000 tons—nearly double last year’s yield.”

Plums remain one of Norway’s most popular fruits, making a successful harvest critical for both growers and consumers.