Behavioural responses of Neotropical raptors to drone approaches to nests.
Aguiar-Silva FH; Junqueira TG; Rivas-Fuenzalida T; Zuluaga S; Kohn S; Restrepo-Cardona JS; Blanco-Márquez PA; Giraldo-Amaya M; Sanaiotti TM; Banhos A; Tuyama CA; Burgos-Andrade K; Orizano D; Narváez F; Encabo M; de Carvalho GDM; Aparicio K
Scientists studied how 27 types of Neotropical raptors reacted to drones flying near their nests in eight countries. Most birds showed defensive actions, especially when drones flew close or for a long time, with smaller birds sometimes attacking but bigger birds avoiding them. The study helps guide safe ways to use drones to watch these birds without bothering them, especially during important times like when they are sitting on eggs or raising chicks.