Lapwings Vanellus vanellus on aerodromes and the birdstrike hazard

Habitat selection by Lapwings Vanellus vanellus varies seasonally, with aerodromes comprising a preferred habitat in late summer and again in late autumn and winter. The presence of flocks of Lapwings on aerodromes poses a flight safety problem but management of the aerodrome habitat, especially the grass areas, combined with scaring, can minimize the hazard. The consequences of displacing large numbers of Lapwings from aerodromes to other habitats are reviewed in relation to the declines in breeding populations that have occurred as a result of changes in agricultural practices.