The Problem
Since 1998, Wild Goose Chase (WGC) has provided PWK with supplementary bird control services to reduce Canada Goose numbers and prevent wildlife strikes with aircraft. While WGC’s integrated wildlife management program has been an overall success, the previous program relied on a trained canine, which required consistent coordination with PWK tower to cross runways to chase targeted birds, briefly disrupting normal airport operations. To reduce these disruptions while still achieving the same program outcomes, WGC adapted its integrated wildlife management program to incorporate new bird deterrent technology.
Actions
In 2020, WGC deployed a handheld laser–Aerolaser Handheld 500–in combination with its existing integrated wildlife management program, which involved a trained canine and an experienced airfield bird management technician. The scope of the program included not only Canada Geese, but additional nuisance bird species, such as gulls and starlings.
WGC coordinated with the Federal Aviation Authority to approve the safety protocol, appropriate use, communication expectations, and reporting requirements prior to deploying the solution to coincide with typical migration patterns for wildlife.
Throughout the spring and fall services, WGC deployed a trained canine managed by an experienced airfield bird management technician who was certified to use the handheld laser to manage the nuisance bird species on PWK property. These deployments were executed at different times of day to ensure that the birds did not become accustomed to recurring service visits. To achieve the best results, WGC also trained PWK tower and maintenance staff to use the handheld laser in between service intervals as needed.
Impact
WGC’s expanded integrated wildlife management program provided continued and effective solutions to PWK’s nuisance bird problems. Since executing WGC’s adapted and expanded integrated wildlife management program, Canada Goose numbers were drastically reduced during the typical migration period (August to November) compared to previous years. Overall, recurring service visits during WGC’s expanded integrated wildlife management program were shorter in terms of time, reducing any potential disruptions to normal airport operations.
