Abstract: A composition for reducing phytotoxicity of benzoic derivatives of esters of phenyl acetic acid or dimethyl benzyl carbonyl acetate is formed by combining the repellent in an aqueous solution with a an anionic surfactant or emulsifier, such as a salt of a fatty acid. The resulting solution can be applied to surfaces of bird edible materials that are to be protected from bird depredation or utilized directly in an associated water system. The solution forms a film on the surfaces of the bird edible materials. The resulting film reduces the normal degradation of the repellent when exposed to sunlight and its phytotoxicity.