Airports face bird challenges all year round, but spring is a time when bird activity, and therefore risk often spikes. Understanding why this happens is key to planning effective bird control strategies and keeping airfields safe.
The Return of Migratory Birds
Every spring, migratory species return from their summer or wintering grounds. Many of these birds follow major flyways that pass close to airports. As they arrive, local bird numbers increase dramatically, creating additional hazards for aircraft operations.
Breeding Season Means More Activity
For resident and migratory birds alike, spring marks the start of breeding season. Birds become more active as they court, nest, and defend territories. This behaviour leads to:
- More frequent flights between feeding and nesting areas.
- Aggressive territorial displays, sometimes in exposed open areas like runways.
- Unpredictable movements, increasing the chance of bird–aircraft interactions.
Abundant Food Sources
Spring growth brings insects, seeds, and fresh vegetation – a feast for birds. Airports, with their wide grassed areas, often become attractive feeding grounds. Nearby farmland may also draw birds in greater numbers, especially after ploughing or planting.
Flocking and Grouping Behaviour
Some species flock more heavily in spring, particularly when food is abundant. These flocks can gather in or around airfields, raising the risk of mass bird strikes rather than single-bird events.
Why Airports Are So Attractive
Airports unintentionally provide ideal bird habitats:
- Large open grass areas with minimal human disturbance.
- Water bodies such as drainage ponds or retention basins.
- Clear sight lines, which appeal to both ground-feeding and predatory birds.
Springtime conditions only heighten these natural attractions.
Managing Bird Pressure in Spring
Because bird pressure is seasonal, control measures must also adapt. Spring is the time to:
Increase monitoring of species activity around the airfield.
Deploy active deterrents such as gas guns, birderasers, bioacoustics, and pyrotechnics more frequently.
Minimize Bird Attractants reduce food and shelter opportunities.
Stay proactive addressing bird presence before it becomes a high-risk situation.
Implement a Stragety for Off-Site Habitat Management monitor and manage areas surrounding the airport to reduce bird attractants (food, water, nesting sites) and track bird movement and behaviour
Staying Ahead of the Risk
At Birdzout, we understand how bird behaviour shifts with the seasons. Spring is a high-risk time, but with the right knowledge, tools, and strategies, airports can keep bird pressure under control and maintain safe operations.
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