Wildlife management
Ensuring Safety on the Runway
Keeping birds away from the runway is crucial for the safety of planes and passengers.
The Civil Aviation Authority considers Wellington Airport to be low risk for wildlife incidents due to the low number that occur relative to our traffic volume, we are very serious about mitigating and managing wildlife threats.
The Black-Backed Gull
The black-backed gull, a scavenger and the most widespread coastal bird in Wellington, poses the biggest concern. These birds are unwelcome not only because of the risk they pose to planes but also because they carry bacteria and threaten many of our native bird species.
Auditory Dispersal Methods
You might occasionally hear sirens, bangs or shot gun like noises, horns, and even fake bird calls at the airport. These are all auditory dispersal methods we use to safely disperse wildlife without causing harm.
Our Efforts
Every year, we invest considerable time and resources to manage and monitor the local gull populations. Our efforts include:
- GPS Tracking: Monitoring gull movements
- Grass Management: Keeping grass short and using special grass on the runway and taxiway areas to repel birds.
- Distress Calling Systems: Equipping airside vehicles and the roof of our main terminal with systems to deter birds.
- Nest Management: Monitoring and managing nests to prevent an unacceptable risk of bird strikes.
- Collaboration with Landfill Operators: Reducing food availability sources for opportunistic species.
- Revegetation Programs: Supporting programs in the Miramar Peninsula and Greater Wellington region to alter gull habitats.
- Partnerships: Working with the Black-Backed Gull Working Group, which includes airlines, councils, landowners, conservation groups, and Victoria University.
How You Can Help
- Avoid Feeding Gulls: Please don’t feed black-backed gulls or leave food lying around.
- Proper Waste Disposal: Conceal food waste by tightly covering it.