JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- To reduce the risk of bird strikes during flying operations, the 12th Flying Training Wing will implement a new bird deterrent method this spring and summer.
From March 24 through May 31, Wing Safety officials will utilize clear, dye-free, paintballs to discourage birds from roosting in trees throughout base housing. This effort will take place Monday through Friday in the hour before sunset. The paintball method is designed to gently flush birds from the area, encouraging them to relocate and reducing the potential threat they pose to aircraft operations.
"Our goal is to keep our Airmen and aircraft safe by minimizing the risk of bird strikes," said Lieutenant Col. Aaron Sands,12th Flying Training Wing safety officer. "This proactive measure helps us deter birds from settling in areas where they pose a threat to flight operations."
Each year, migrating birds arrive at JBSA-Randolph during the spring season, joining the base’s year-round bird population. These birds often nest and raise their young throughout the summer months, increasing the risk of bird strikes to aircraft. By deterring birds from nesting in key areas, the Wing aims to mitigate these risks and enhance flight safety.
A damaging bird strike could cost millions of dollars to repair. Using routine wildlife surveys, we will be able to determine the effectiveness of this risk mitigation program.
As summer arrives, the paintball effort will shift to early morning hours, occurring during the first hour of sunrise. This change is intended to align with bird activity patterns and ensure the effectiveness of the deterrent strategy.
The Safety office confirmed that "fogging" operations, previously used as a bird control measure in base housing, will not be conducted this year.
For more information about ongoing bird strike prevention efforts and their impact on flight safety, residents are encouraged to contact the 12th Flying Training Wing Safety Office.