How do conventional farmers typically manage pests compared to organic farmers?

Conventional farmers typically manage pests primarily through the use of chemical pesticides. This approach involves applying synthesized chemicals designed to kill or inhibit pests, which can include insects, weeds, and fungi that threaten crops. Chemical pesticides are chosen for their effectiveness in quickly reducing pest populations and protecting yield by creating a more controlled farming environment.

In contrast, organic farmers employ a range of alternative methods to manage pests, such as crop rotation, hand weeding, traps, and biological controls rather than relying on synthetic chemicals. These practices are aimed at promoting biodiversity and reducing reliance on chemicals, thus fostering soil health and minimizing environmental impacts.

While other options mentioned like traps and breeding birds may be used in global pest management strategies, they do not characterize the primary method employed in conventional farming, which is to utilize chemical pesticides. Therefore, the distinction lies in the reliance on synthetic chemicals by conventional farmers as the main pest management strategy.