Harnessing GIS for Real-Time Wildlife Monitoring at Aerodromes

This article explores how geographic information systems (GIS) and other mapping technologies provide crucial insights into wildlife movement, habitat usage, and risk hotspots at aerodromes. By layering environmental and operational data, aerodrome managers can make informed decisions that boost safety and efficiency.

FUNDAMENTALS OF WILDLIFE HAZARD MANAGEMENT

Waleed MAHROUS

1/20/20254 min read

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and advanced mapping technologies have revolutionized wildlife monitoring at aerodromes, providing crucial insights into animal movements, habitat usage, and risk hotspots. By integrating environmental and operational data, aerodrome managers can make informed decisions that significantly enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Real-Time Data Collection and Visualization

Modern GIS platforms allow for the real-time collection and visualization of wildlife data. Aerodrome personnel can use mobile devices to record wildlife sightings, which are instantly uploaded to a centralized system. This data is then overlaid onto detailed maps of the aerodrome and surrounding areas, creating a dynamic, up-to-date picture of wildlife activity.

Spatial and Temporal Analysis

GIS technology enables sophisticated spatial and temporal analysis of wildlife patterns:

Hotspot Identification: By analyzing historical data, GIS can pinpoint areas of frequent wildlife activity, allowing for targeted management efforts.
Seasonal Trends: Temporal analysis reveals seasonal variations in wildlife presence, helping aerodromes prepare for periods of increased risk.
Movement Corridors: GIS can identify wildlife movement corridors, particularly those that intersect with aircraft flight paths.

Integration with Other Data Sources

The power of GIS lies in its ability to integrate multiple data layers:

Habitat Mapping: Detailed vegetation and land use maps can be overlaid with wildlife sightings to understand habitat preferences.
Weather Data: Incorporating meteorological information helps predict wildlife behavior under different weather conditions.
Aircraft Movements: Overlaying flight path data with wildlife activity highlights potential conflict areas.

3D Visualization and Predictive Modeling

Advanced GIS applications offer 3D visualization capabilities, allowing managers to better understand the vertical dimension of wildlife hazards. This is particularly crucial for assessing risks during aircraft takeoff and landing phases.
Predictive modeling algorithms can use historical GIS data to forecast future wildlife activity, enabling proactive management strategies.

Collaborative Data Sharing

GIS platforms facilitate data sharing between aerodromes, wildlife agencies, and researchers. This collaborative approach enhances our understanding of wildlife behavior on a regional scale and helps develop more effective management strategies.

Enhancing Decision-Making and Response

By providing a comprehensive, data-driven view of wildlife hazards, GIS empowers aerodrome managers to:

Allocate resources more effectively to high-risk areas.
Develop targeted habitat modification strategies.
Implement real-time warning systems for pilots and ground crews.
Evaluate the effectiveness of wildlife management interventions over time.

The most commonly used GIS tools and software for wildlife management at aerodromes include:

QGIS: A free and open-source GIS software that offers comprehensive tools for spatial analysis, modeling, data management, and mapping.
ArcGIS: A commercial software platform that provides powerful and versatile GIS applications.
GRASS GIS: Another free and open-source software focusing on geospatial analysis and modeling.
Movebank: A free online database for accessing, storing, and analyzing animal movement data.
Maxent: A free software for modeling species distribution and habitat suitability.
Circuitscape: A free software for modeling landscape connectivity and gene flow.
Trimble Recon® handheld computers with integrated GPS: Used for field data collection in wildlife management programs.
ESRI ArcPad: A software extension used in conjunction with handheld devices for wildlife counting, patrol monitoring, and grass height management.
SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool): A ranger patrol data management software.
CyberTracker: A mobile application for data collection by rangers.

These tools and software packages enable aerodrome managers and wildlife specialists to collect, analyze, and visualize data on wildlife movements, habitats, and potential risks, supporting more effective wildlife hazard management strategies.

Conclusion

GIS technology has become an indispensable tool in modern wildlife hazard management at aerodromes. By harnessing the power of spatial data analysis and visualization, aerodromes can significantly reduce the risks associated with wildlife strikes, ensuring safer skies for all.
As we continue to refine our approach to wildlife management, the next critical step is to explore the risk assessment frameworks recommended by international aviation authorities. These frameworks provide standardized methods for quantifying wildlife threats and prioritizing response efforts, complementing the spatial insights provided by GIS technology. By combining GIS-driven monitoring with robust risk assessment protocols, aerodromes can develop comprehensive, data-driven wildlife management strategies that address the complex challenges of aviation safety in an ever-changing environment.

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