d Ha za r
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BA SH m al S An i rd Bi
By Lt. Larry Tarver
ird and animal strikes continue to be a hazard to all aviation activities. Probably the most important aspect of any BASH program is reporting. Information in these reports of bird and animal activity and actual strikes around airfields provide the most accurate and real-time information for pilot awareness. From the pilot on final approach, to the person driving the duty sweeper, to the contractor refueling parked aircraft, everyone should contact the tower and relay information regarding wildlife activities that pose a threat to aircrews and aircraft. Reports of near-misses, aircraft strikes, and dead animals found in the area are important to maintaining an accurate database. This data increases our ability to address and solve wildlife issues. Information about species, location, and time of day can provide valuable data regarding problem areas in the airfield environment and on low-level routes. We then 4
can identify what attracts the species to a particular area and in many cases, remove the attractant and modify low-level routes.
Our New Partner: The Smithsonian Bird Identification Lab
To assist reporting and hazard-mitigation efforts, Approach
