Radar Technology - A Tool for Understanding Migratory “Aerofauna”

Product Type: Science Feature

Year: 2008

Author(s): Ruth, J.M

Suggested Citation:
Ruth, J.M. 2008. Radar Technology - A Tool for Understanding Migratory “Aerofauna”. http://www.fort.usgs.gov/radar/.

Abstract

Understanding the factors affecting migratory bird and bat populations during all three phases of their life cycle – breeding, non-breeding, and migration – is critical to species conservation planning. This includes the need for information about these species’ responses to natural challenges, as well as information about the impact of human activities that alter resources critical to migrants during passage and stopovers. Birds and bats are also uniquely susceptible to human use of the airspace. Wind turbines, communication and power transmission towers, and other tall structures known to cause bird and bat mortality are being erected or proposed in increasing numbers across the country...