All of the tractors on the stands at Grasslandz were bright, shiny and immaculate – except one – and it proved to be a real show-stopper.

The burnt-out wreck of a machine on the FMG stand was a graphic reminder of how important it is to check under the bonnet – even after a one-hour lunch break.

FMG Waikato rural manager Alex Murray with the burnt-out tractor, which received a lot of attention at Grasslandz.

The tractor's demise, explains Alex Murray, FMG Waikato's rural manager, was caused by starlings building a nest in the engine bay in the hour it took the tractor driver to have lunch.

'This can and does happen to any make or model of tractor. Fortunately, the owner of this machine was insured.”

It can take starling as little as 17 minutes to install enough nesting material in the engine bay to cause a fire when the key is turned on. Alex says the message is to leave the bonnet open and check for evidence of birds before starting the machine.

'If a tractor does catch fire, not only can it mean the loss of the machine, but also the ability to carry out the work it is used for. We offer cover to help with the extra costs and even the hire of a replacement vehicle.”

Alex says the tractor and its sorry state attracted a good deal of attention and helped reinforce the ‘Stop and Pop' message the insurance company is promoting.

'The best way to avoid a tractor fire in spring is to ‘Stop and Pop'.

'Stop and check for nests under the bonnet before you get going for the day. Birds are speedy builders and can make a start on a nest in the time it takes you to have your lunch; so remember to take a look each and every time you use your tractor.

'Pop the bonnet and park with it lifted. Birds prefer to nest in sheltered, enclosed spaces, so put them off by storing your tractor with the bonnet lifted.”