Visual fields,foraging and collision vulnerability in Gyps vultures |
| |
Authors: | GRAHAM R MARTIN STEVEN J PORTUGAL CAMPBELL P MURN |
| |
Institution: | 1. School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;2. Structure and Motion Laboratory, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK;3. Hawk Conservancy Trust, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 8DY, UK |
| |
Abstract: | The visual fields of vultures contain a small binocular region and large blind areas above, below and behind the head. Head positions typically adopted by foraging vultures suggest that these visual fields provide comprehensive visual coverage of the ground below, prohibit the eyes from imaging the sun and provide extensive visual coverage laterally. However, vultures will often be blind in the direction of travel. We conclude that by erecting structures such as wind turbines, which extend into open airspace, humans have provided a perceptual challenge that the vision of foraging vultures cannot overcome. |
| |
Keywords: | binocular vision blind area Gyps africanus Gyps fulvus vision visual fields wind turbines |
|
|