Deer, such as this white-tailed buck, can wreak havoc on residential and commercial landscapes. They are usually browsers, and primarily feed on leaves, as well as shoots, fresh grasses, soft twigs, and fruit.

A deterrent device that uses flashing LED lights and predator sounds has been recently introduced as a humane method to keep pests away from residential and commercial yards, decks, balconies and patios.

The product, Sonic Shield• by Bird-B-Gone Inc., is self-contained, portable, and operates on four AA batteries. The device has two modes of operations: a daytime mode to repel pests using the sounds of a barking dog and an eagle, which is a predator for most birds; and a nighttime mode that repels pests using only flashing LED lights. The unit features a motion sensor that triggers when a pest crosses its path.

According to the manufacturer, which is based in Santa Ana, Calif., and supplies the commercial, industrial and residential market with what it describes as humane pest deterrents, the product is effective on several pests, including mice, skunks, raccoons, opossums, and deer.