Aerodrome Safety Circular (ASC) No. 2000-003

ASC 2000-003
2000.09.15

Subject

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Various Deer Exclusion Devices and DeterrentTechniques for Use at Airports.

Purpose

This Aerodrome Safety Information Circular is being issued to provide Canadian Aerodrome operators with information on the efficacy of the many devices and deterrent techniques that may be used to exclude deer from Canadian Airports.

Background

In recent years, there has been increasing interest and concern about the hazards to aircraft posed by White-tailed Deer in the airport environment. After birds, deer have caused the greatest number of wildlife collisions with civil aircraft in North America. This high incident rate is due in part to the remarkable increase in the population of White-tailed Deer during the past two decades, and has led to an increased risk to aircraft at many airports. In response to these risks, many techniques and types of equipment have been used or proposed for deer control at airports. While the focus of this circular is on White-tailed Deer, all wild ungulates present similar potential problems to airport operators. There is much first-hand experience with deer control devices and techniques, but most of it is unpublished and not readily available. Consequently, resources may be wasted on exclusion and deterrent techniques that are not entirely effective.

Transport Canada recognized the need for a critical analysis of available and proposed exclusion and deterrent techniques for airport deer exclusion, and subsequently contracted a study to provide this analysis.

Application

The "Evaluation of the Efficacy of Various Deer Exclusion Devices and Deterrent Techniques for Use at Airports" report is designed to complement the existing " Wildlife Control Procedures Manual" (TP11500), which is available from Transport Canada. In addition, Airport Wildlife Management Bulletin # 21 entitled "Deer Hazards," highlights the challenges deer can present to airport managers. Both documents are available electronically at https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/publications/airport-wildlife-management-bulletins-tp-8240.

The report provides information on the efficacy of the various deer exclusion methods and deterrent techniques listed in the manual, as well as additional products and techniques. The reviews and evaluations contained in the report focus on measures that can be used on airport property. A critical evaluation of the efficacy of each technique and type of equipment is provided. There is no simple, stand-alone solution to deer control at airports. The best control programs employ a variety of products and techniques. Ultimately, management commitment is the driving force determining the success of an airport wildlife control program. This is reflected in a trained and motivated field staff, and an adequate supply of appropriate and well-maintained control products.

Summary

In order to obtain additional information on this report, or other issues related to wildlife control at airports, please contact:

 

Civil Aviation
Communication Centre (AARCB)
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa ON
K1A 0N8
North America: 1-800-305-2059
Fax: 613-957-4208
Civil Aviation Communications Centre contact form

Original signed by:
John Maxwell (2000.09.15)
Director, Aerodrome Safety