Birds Feeding Activity: A Potential Risk Factor to Birds’ Strike on Airplanes in Douala International Airport, Littoral Region, Cameroon

The feeding behavior of birds presents a significant potential threat to flight safety at Douala International Airport. The phenomenon of bird strikes represents a critical safety concern for aviation, especially in ecologically diverse areas like Douala International Airport in the Littoral Region of Cameroon. Given the airport’s proximity to wetlands and agricultural landscapes, it is crucial to understand how these habitats contribute to bird activity and how this, in turn, affects flight operations. This study seeks to provide a detailed understanding of this issue, facilitating the development of effective management strategies to reduce the risk of bird strikes. By addressing the interplay between avian activity and aviation safety, the outcomes of this research will enhance operational safety while promoting ecological stewardship in the Littoral Region of Cameroon. Regular field surveys were conducted to observe and document bird species and their feeding behavior in and around the airport. Observations occurred during different times of day and seasons to capture variations in bird activity. Observers recorded specific feeding behaviors, such as foraging methods, preferred food sources, interactions with other species, habitat, and climatic conditions. The results of this study recorded a high presence of village weaver (<i>Ploceus cucullatus</i>) 21.2%, black-crowned waxbill (<i>Estrilda nonnula</i>) 19.7% respectively, while pied crow (<i>Corvus albus</i>) 2.3% and black & white mannikin (<i>Lonchura bicolor</i>) 2.3% recorded the lowest presence. Climatic condition revealed a significant correlation on the location of birds at the airport r=0.649 P=0.000, birds feeding activity level r=0.143 P<0.05, and movement of birds within the airport r=0.363 P=0.000 respectively. Photo-period was significantly recorded on birds location r=0.491 P=0.000, birds feeding activity level r=0.200 P=0.021, birds location during flight landing and takeoff routine operations r=0.445 P=0.000 respectively. The diversity of habitats surrounding the airport, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands, directly impacts bird feeding activity. Each habitat supports different bird species based on food availability and shelter. Management practices that enhance habitat quality can lead to increased bird activity, which is vital for both biodiversity and the safety of airport operations. Implementation of vegetation management strategies around the airport to reduce perching opportunities for high-risk bird species. Regular maintenance and removal of specific vegetation types that attract birds can help minimize risks associated with bird strikes.