Researchers have called for greater regulation of drones after finding they were having a big impact on endangered species.
The team, led by PhD candidate Joshua Wilson, carried out 240 drone approaches over flocks of birds in Moreton Bay and found that 11 species were generally unaffected.
“Drones can interrupt birds as they try to rest or feed and birds avoid habitats that are regularly disturbed,” Wilson said.
“If the birds are consistently interrupted or scared away for their preferred habitats, species like the eastern curlew, which migrates thousands of kilometres to breed, may find it difficult to gain the energy they need to survive and reproduce.”
He said a drones had a commercial and recreational benefit and were even used to monitor birds in hard-to-reach locations, but the findings indicated they needed more space.
21·1 year ago- The link attaches to an article from the University of Queensland, discussing the potential conflict between drones and endangered birds.
- This research project investigates the reaction of various endangered bird species towards drones in their natural habitat.
- The ultimate goal of the study is to devise guidelines for drone operations in areas that are sensitive to bird conservation, it emphasizes on balancing technological advances with wildlife wellbeing.
- Preliminary findings suggest birds exhibit different reactions towards drones, from curiosity to hostility; the researchers understand that considering birds’ behavior patterns is crucial for designing drone guidelines.
- The researchers emphasize the importance of further understanding and research in this area as drones become more commonly used, to ensure they do not inadvertently contribute to the extinction of vulnerable bird species.