Challenges, Circumstances and Considerations for Bird and Wildlife Abatement and the Importance of Empirical and Historical Data at Central Florida Airports

Authors

Johnny Metcalf, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Orlando International Airport, One Airport Blvd, Orlando, FL
George Speake, Sanford Airport Authority, Orlando Sanford International Airport, 1200 Red Cleveland Blvd., Sanford, FL

Date of this Version

8-2008

Document Type

Article

Comments

Abstract of paper presented at Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada Meeting, Lake Mary and Sanford, Florida, August 18–21, 2008.

Abstract

The central Florida region is home to a variety of birds and wildlife. Most bird species occurring in the eastern United States winter in, or migrate through, Florida. Ample rainfall, abundant lakes, ponds and marshes provide productive aquatic habitats for a variety of birds, reptiles and mammals. Airport operators are faced with a diversity of wildlife species and situations capable of adversely impacting aviation operations. Constant surveillance, dispersals, removals capture relocations, habitat and ecological modifications are the primary tools for addressing these issues. Area development has increased significantly in recent years making the open expanses of the airfield and unimproved airport property more attractive to birds and wildlife including state and federally protected species resilient to a variety of human activities including aviation operations. Cooperation between regulatory, environmental and conservation organizations is essential for public support, proposing and/or modifying legislation and constructing comprehensive abatement measures. Historical and empirical data can provide a basis for cooperation and puts into perspective hazards relative to each species and its population specifically bald eagles and wood storks.