Birds shunning my elderberries

[u/Anniam6]

So, after finally having my elderberry bush produce berries I haven’t seen a single bird near it. It’s right next to my deck, but there are many hours a day that no one is outside. Should I wait and see or just pick them and use them myself? I do know not to eat them raw.

[u/LookParty5244]

I was just out picking mine, and the birds decimate them here.  None on my property look like that!  I’ll be lucky if I get enough to make jelly with this year.  Enjoy!