To chase birds off the runway and out of harm’s way
Chasing birds with the wind in their hair, and sometimes in their mouths, is what the dogs of the Bird Strike Avoidance Project at OR Tambo International Airport live for. Actually, it’s their daily job – to wake up in the morning and chase unwanted birds off to ensure that the grasslands surrounding the runways are clear. Not only can an aeroplane lose its engine when it strikes a big bird, but the bird is also killed instantly. To replace an engine of a Boeing 747-800 costs in the region of US$12 million.
Patrolling the airport
Animaltalk had the opportunity to go out with the dogs to follow them on a daily round. The team of dogs, which consists of two Border Collies and two English Springer Spaniels, actively patrols the two runways and the grasslands adjacent to the runways from dawn to dusk. The patrols take place with their handlers in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
“When a bird is sighted by one of the handlers, the working dog is given a whistle command and the dog then actively chases or flushes the bird,” explains Melissa Hofmann, senior wildlife officer, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).
This story is from the October 2017 edition of Animaltalk Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2017 edition of Animaltalk Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Battle Of The Bell
Is the bell on your cat’s collar a good idea, or not?
Kriya Gangiah To The Rescue
How Louis got saved from the shelter
17 Tips For A Healthy Fish Tank
When it comes to a fish tank, it is important to understand that you are creating a little aquatic ecosystem and, in this system, every living organism must live in harmony. The experts have a saying: “better preparation for better results” – so always do your research about your type of fish and the type of tank they need.
Fear Not, Little One
24 tips to prepare your dog to handle loud noises
Lessons From The Dodo
Human influence can accelerate natural phenomena in harmful ways
Emigration 101
What you need to know before you leave
Love Me More
7 things your dog wants you to know
Burmese Cats
A strong, healthy breed according to the facts and research
So Cool At School
Wendy, the Belgian Shepherd (Malinois), is the first resident narcotics detection dog to be introduced at a South African high school
A Hard Lesson To Learn
DJ Jazzy D tells us about his five English Bulldogs and what he’s learnt
