08 February 2013

Feds ask Centurylink Officials to Reduce Bird Strikes

A letter sent by a federal agency to a CenturyLink Center official asks that efforts be taken to deal with the ongoing deaths of migratory birds at this building on the Omaha riverfront.

Despite attempts to reduce bird collisions, i.e., decals on the glass of the upper facade on the west side, strikes continue to occur, according to the letter sent from the Ecological Services, Nebraska Field Office, of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The federal agency "has record" of 440 collisions here during the past five years.

"The Service requests your participation in implementing additional techniques to minimize collisions." - FWS letter verbage

"This number of bird deaths is higher than any other commercial building in Omaha for which we have data and advocates the need for additional corrective measures to be taken," said the letter, signed by Michael D. George, the Nebraska field supervisor.

Included in the letter was an indication that migratory birds are "protected" by provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits the "direct intentional and/or unintentional take (i.e., killing or injuring) or migratory birds."

This letter indicated an interest to "working collaboratively" to find solutions to the problem. "Accordingly, our office would be happy to assist you by providing technical assistance and expertise on this matter," the letter said. Specific details were given on the person to contact at the field office in Grand Island.

The letter was dated January 24, 2013, and sent to Roger Dixon, of the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority, at a North 10th Street address.