Avian Hazards to the Air Force Rocket Sled Test Tract, Holloman AFB, New Mexico
Abstract
Bird-rocket sled collisions at the rocket-sled test track at Holloman AFB, New Mexico, have resulted in severe damage to rocket sleds and ancillary equipment. The ecotonal location of the track, together with abundant water supplies created by the water braking system and an artificial rain field, is instrumental in attracting a large avifaunal population. Of the 41 species observed in the test track vicinity, house finches, horned larks, lark buntings, loggerhead shrikes, scaled quail, mourning doves, and western meadowlarks are most abundant. The bird population is greatest in autumn due to predominantly to an influx of migratory horned larks. Techniques which may effectively reduce the incidence of birds in the test track vicinity include habitat manipulation designed to reduce sunflowers and other herbs and seeds on which local birds feed; the reduction of standing water in the test track braking channel; and the establishment of alternate food and water sources away from the test track.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0755833
Entities
People
- Michael J. Boulter
- Rutherford C. Wooten
- William M. Floyd
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory