Network Rail hires Hawk to scare off roof-pecking squatters
Photo Credit To Network Rail

Network Rail hires Hawk to scare off roof-pecking squatters

Network Rail hires Hawk to scare off roof-pecking squatters

Network Rail has enlisted the services of a Harris hawk to rid Manchester Victoria station roof of pesky seagulls.

In 2015 as part of the station’s £44m transformation, new ethylene tetrafluoroethylene roof panels were fitted. Since then seagulls, have taken up residence on the roof and are pecking at it.

While the roof is robust enough to carry a car, their pecking has created holes in some panels, causing water to leak on to the platforms below.

Network Rail hires Hawk to scare off roof-pecking squatters

Rob Ellams, buildings engineer at Network Rail, said: “Seagulls are a city-wide problem and they’ve chosen Manchester Victoria station’s roof as their new home.

“Unfortunately, they’re pretty awful tenants. They don’t pay rent and their constant pecking is damaging the roof.

“We’re hoping good, in the form of our hawk, triumphs over bad by scaring the gulls off.”

Liam Sumpter, regional director from Northern said: “Birds of prey are used successfully to deter birds from airport runways and other city centres, so bringing a Harris hawk to Manchester Victoria is a fantastic solution to a very real problem.

“We’ll continue to work with Network Rail to make Manchester Victoria the best possible station for our customers.”

Network Rail hires Hawk to scare off roof-pecking squatters

A handler will fly the Harris hawk around the station eight times a month between October and November.

Flying the hawk helps to disrupt the gull’s behaviour and disturb them on a regular basis. They then become unsettled and look elsewhere to roost and nest.

Post source : Network Rail

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Anthony brings a wealth of global experience to his role as Managing Editor of Highways.Today. With an extensive career spanning several decades in the construction industry, Anthony has worked on diverse projects across continents, gaining valuable insights and expertise in highway construction, infrastructure development, and innovative engineering solutions. His international experience equips him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the highways industry.

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