New York City's beaches are witnessing an unusual tug-of-war between technology and nature. Since May, a fleet of drones has been patrolling the shores in search of sharks and assisting struggling swimmers. However, these mechanical guardians are facing fierce opposition from local shorebirds, turning the coastal areas into a battleground.
Flocks of oystercatchers and other bird species have been swooping down on the drones, disrupting their missions and forcing city agencies to rethink their strategies. While the drones are equipped with inflatable life rafts intended for distressed swimmers, they have yet to perform a single rescue. The first confirmed shark sighting occurred just last Thursday, leading to the temporary closure of most beaches.
Rockaway Beach, a favorite summer spot for New Yorkers, is home to several vulnerable bird species, including the federally endangered piping plovers. To protect these birds, local officials have been diligently monitoring nesting areas each summer, restricting access for both beachgoers and drones. Despite these measures, the aggressive behavior of the birds has raised alarms among wildlife experts about the potential long-term impacts on these threatened populations.
Natalie Grybauskas, assistant commissioner of the city's Emergency Management Department, highlighted the challenges in balancing safety and conservation efforts. \"We pointed out that there's a nest here and there are two angry parents who don't want you anywhere near their eggs or their babies,\" she explained. In response, drone operators from the police and fire departments have adjusted their flight paths to minimize disturbances to the nesting areas.
The situation has prompted city agencies to hold specialized briefings, a shift from their usual focus on disasters like fires or structural collapses. Grybauskas emphasized the importance of understanding the life cycles of baby birds to effectively manage the coexistence of technology and wildlife.
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Angry birds fight drones patrolling for sharks on NYC beaches
cgtn.com