Christchurch Airport has long grappled with the challenge of managing bird activity on and around the airfield - a critical safety concern for aircraft operations. In an effort to enhance bird control, the airport team trialed multiple laser-based deterrent systems. With aviation safety as the top priority, the goal was to identify a solution that was both effective at long range and safe to operate within the airport’s unique environment.
The airport’s wildlife management team needed to evaluate the performance, usability, and safety of various laser deterrents, including the Birdzout BirdEraser model to:
- Determine which laser provided the best bird dispersal results across multiple species.
- Ensure safe operation within airside environments, particularly where firearm use was limited or prohibited.
- Complement existing bird control methods without causing habituation in birds.
The Birdzout BirdEraser Laser was trialed under a range of environmental conditions and against multiple bird species.
Key observations from the trial included:
Performance Range:
- Over 200 metres on sunny days
- 500+ metres on overcast days
Usability:
- Simple and intuitive to operate
- Effective dispersal method: begin by placing the laser in front of the birds and sweep across the flock
Mid-flight Trials:
- Conducted during foggy conditions with no aircraft in the vicinity
- Successfully dispersed both feral pigeons and Canadian geese in flight at approximately 100 metres
- Flight behaviour changed dramatically; birds appeared agitated and altered their flight patterns noticeably
The laser's optional scope was found helpful in identifying bird species at longer ranges and targeting precisely before activating the beam.
Species Tested & Results:
| Plovers | Very effective |
| Magpies | Very effective |
| Pigeons | Very effective |
| Starlings | Very effective |
| Sparrows | Very effective |
| Quail | Effective |
| Pukeko | Effective |
| Paradise Ducks | Very effective |
| Black-Backed Gulls | Very effective |
| Harrier Hawks | Marginally effective |
Additional Observations:
- Battery Life: ~2 hours per charge; battery changes were quick and easy.
- Safety & Regulation: Must be treated like a firearm. Use at NZ airports requires CAA approval, and misuse could result in the authority being revoked. Strict safety protocols are essential.
Following side-by-side testing of three different laser models, Christchurch Airport found the Birdzout BirdEraser to be the top performer, especially in terms of:
- Effective range
- Ease of use
- Impact across a wide range of common bird species
- Suitability in scenarios where firearms are unsafe or ineffective
The team concluded that the Birdzout BirdEraser outperformed overseas alternatives and would be a valuable addition to an integrated bird management strategy. While not a standalone solution, its integration with existing tools enhances flexibility and coverage across different bird dispersal situations.
The trial at Christchurch Airport demonstrates how high-performance laser deterrents like the Birdzout BirdEraser can fill critical gaps in bird management strategies - especially in environments where safety, precision, and compliance are paramount.
"Used responsibly and in conjunction with other tools, the BirdEraser is an invaluable asset to modern bird control programs in aviation."
Interested in learning more about Birdzout BirdEraser Laser technology?
View more info here
Or contact us for a consultation
