Why is it essential to avoid flying the DJI Mavic 4 Pro near flocks of birds?

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Why is it essential to avoid flying the DJI Mavic 4 Pro near flocks of birds: Avoiding flying the DJI Mavic 4 Pro near flocks of birds is an essential operational safety recommendation. Birds, when flying in groups, can become confused or frightened by the drone's presence, reacting unpredictably. This increases the risk of collision with the drone, which could cause not only damage to the equipment but also injury to the bird, violating wildlife protection regulations in many countries. Even small species, such as seagulls or pigeons, can alter their trajectory when they detect the drone in the air.

Furthermore, birds of prey are particularly territorial. There have been documented cases where hawks, eagles, or owls have attacked drones, interpreting them as a threat. These attacks not only compromise flight stability but can also destroy drone components such as propellers, motors, or cameras, forcing emergency landings or complete loss of the equipment. Operators must always be aware that their drone may be perceived as an intruder in certain aerial ecosystems.

From a technical perspective, a collision with a bird can trigger navigation sensor failures, affect the accuracy of the GNSS system, or even damage the gimbal, limiting image capture during the mission. Impact debris such as feathers or blood can also clog vents or affect cameras. For this reason, it is essential to conduct post-flight inspections if contact with birds is suspected during flight.

To prevent these scenarios, it is advisable to avoid protected natural areas, parks with active wildlife, or areas near bodies of water where migratory birds concentrate. Monitoring the environment before takeoff, maintaining a safe flight altitude, and being prepared to interrupt the mission if birds are detected are responsible practices that ensure the safety of the drone, the pilot, and the aerial ecosystem.