Governments and corporations are looking for ways to reduce food-grade plastic pollution
The press service of the "Land of the Leopard" national park reported that a flock of endangered lesser white-fronted geese nearly perished due to a private helicopter flying at dangerously low altitude in the protected area of the Far Eastern Marine Reserve. The pilot's actions endangered not only one of the rarest bird species in the world but also the tourists observing the animals.
The Eurocopter AS 355 flew just about six meters above the protected waters of the reserve. As a result of the pilot's actions, over 150 birds left their feeding area for several days. They were also at risk of death, as the helicopter flying so low could have easily caught the geese in its rotor blades. Colonies of other birds, including rare herons and cormorants, were disturbed as well.
At the time of the incident, dozens of birdwatchers, including children, were observing the birds. A helicopter crash caused by birds getting caught in the blades could have resulted in numerous casualties.
State inspectors intervened when the pilot made an illegal landing near Sivuchya Bay, intending to relax on the shore of the protected sea with passengers. Consequently, a case was opened for an administrative offense under Article 8.39 of the Russian Administrative Offenses Code.
The statement emphasized that flights of airplanes and helicopters below two kilometers over the waters and territory of the Far Eastern Marine Reserve are prohibited. This helicopter was flying significantly below that threshold. Additionally, the helicopter landed in a protected zone where parking of motor vehicles is not allowed.
The lesser white-fronted goose is one of the rarest birds in the world. This species is listed in the Red Data Book. In Russia, it nests only on Furugelma Island, in the southern part of the Far Eastern Marine Reserve. In the 1990s, due to hunting, habitat destruction, and environmental pollution, the global population reached a critically low level of 288 individuals. Currently, thanks to the efforts of conservation organizations, there are about 1,500 individuals worldwide.
Blogs
