There is evidence of disturbance to seabird colonies in Orkney as a result of recent drone flights conducted by Windracers, according to new research by ornithologist Dr Roy Armstrong and ecologist Caitlin Henderson. Not found. The findings are important for drone operators looking to provide services to remote island communities in Scotland, which are home to many sensitive bird species.
The seabird habitat disturbance study was commissioned as part of Windracers’ drone delivery trials in Orkney. In the trial, Windracers ULTRA, a twin-engine fixed-wing aircraft with a 10m wingspan, flew autonomously between the islands of Eday, Westray and North Ronaldsay several times a week.
Seabird habitat monitoring
Dr Armstrong and Dr Henderson observed seabird colonies at the uninhabited Calf of Eday, home to 32 species of breeding birds. The area is recognized as a Specially Protected Area (SPA) due to its importance as a nesting site. Researchers focused on species such as cormorants, fulmars, puffins, razorbills, kittywalks and various gulls.
Studies have shown that no species reacts negatively to drone flights, either visually or acoustically. Some seagulls were attracted to taxiing drones, a common behavior seen when these birds follow agricultural machinery. Other disturbances observed were caused by passing sheep, passersby and boats.
Dr Armstrong said the findings were consistent with previous research into drone-bird interactions. “This experiment clearly showed that no confounding effects were observed at any stage of chick rearing in different species,” he said. He also emphasized that the low noise levels of Windracers ULTRA mean it is unlikely to have a negative impact on bird habitat.
Drone delivery and wildlife protection support
As part of the development of ULTRA drones, Windracers is committed to understanding the potential environmental impacts of its operations. Rob Datson, Chief Operating Officer at Windracers, said: “The results of this study will provide confidence to Orkney residents and the global birding community.”
Cargo delivery trials using Windracers ULTRA are part of the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment (SATE) program. The program aims to demonstrate the feasibility of using drones to transport goods to remote areas such as the Scottish Highlands and islands in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. SATE is partly funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Flight Challenge, which supports advances in autonomous aviation.
Future implications for UK drone operations
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) recently selected SATE as one of six projects to test the safe integration of drones flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) into UK airspace. Highland and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL) will work with Windracers to lead the project and ensure ongoing efforts to ensure drone operations are safe for wildlife and the environment.
With a payload of 100kg and a range of up to 1,000km, Windracers ULTRA is designed for reliable mid-mile logistics. The aircraft’s dual and triple redundant systems ensure it can operate safely without a remote pilot.
This study supports the use of drones in remote areas while maintaining protection for sensitive wildlife, paving the way for sustainable and environmentally friendly drone operations.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE, CEO of JobForDrones, a marketplace for professional drone services, and a keen observer of the emerging drone industry and the drone regulatory environment. Miriam has authored over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized industry figure. Miriam holds a degree from the University of Chicago and has over 20 years of experience in high-tech sales and emerging technology marketing.
If you would like to consult or write about the drone industry, please email Miriam.
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