Working to Prevent Plane and Migratory Bird Flight Path Collisions at Area Airports
From the Vancouver Sun re: YVR and Bird Strikes:
“B.C.’s coastal geography attracts migratory birds. With bird strikes rising around the world, here’s how B.C. airports work to prevent them…
What is more worrisome is evidence that some migratory bird species are spending more time in B.C.’s coastal areas due to climate changes, increasingly the likelihood of strikes near airports. Research shows that … many of North America’s largest bird species, such as geese, have risen over the last three decades, and become more adapted to urban environments.
Also, plane engines, which might scare away birds, have become quieter….
The airport also manages wildlife habitat on the airfield, installing drainage to reduce pooling water and planting grass species that won’t attract waterfowl.
A conservation area adjacent to the airport on Sea Island is managed by Environment Canada and provides tree and shrub habitat for raptors and songbirds, rather than the grasslands favoured by ducks and geese, said wildlife program specialist David Bradbeer.”…
Fowl play: A peek behind the scenes as B.C. airports try to prevent bird strikes. Vancouver Sun, January 25, 2025
West Vancouver’s Relationship to Geese and Habitat
West Vancouver is on the Pacific Flyway and our foreshore has historically been a habitat for migratory birds. However, foreshore development has resulted in damage to this habitat.
Would maintaining, instead of developing our foreshore habitat, not only attract migratory birds back to our foreshore to the delight of residents and visitors, but play an important role in working to prevent bird strikes at the Vancouver and surrounding area airports?
This is an excellent “Vancouver Bird Strategy” presentation on protecting and encouraging, not scaring off them off.
By protecting and encouraging them to a welcoming and safe north shore habitat, it would make sense that this might indirectly keep birds them off the flight paths of the Vancouver and other surrounding airports’ planes, perhaps saving lives.