When we think about protecting wildlife and complying with environmental regulations in mining, many people picture only bird netting. And while netting is essential in critical areas such as tailings dams or leach pads, the reality is that the mining industry relies on multiple layers of protection, combining physical systems, technology, and active deterrence to minimize risk.

In an environment where a single dead bird in a pond can lead to fines, sanctions, and bad press, netting is only the last line of defense. Modern systems aim to prevent animals from coming into contact with toxic substances, while also discouraging them from approaching hazardous areas without causing harm.

Active Deterrence Systems

These systems seek to modify animal behavior, preventing entry into high-risk areas. The goal is to warn and scare away—without injuring:

• Automated Lasers: Project green laser beams in random patterns that birds perceive as an approaching object, causing them to flee. They are silent and operate 24/7, and animals are less likely to become habituated.
• Gas Cannons: Emit periodic detonations using propane. They are cost-effective, but if used with a fixed pattern, wildlife can become accustomed to them.
• Bioacoustic Systems: Smart speakers that emit predator calls or distress calls from local species. They are more effective when triggered by motion sensors.
• Ultrasonic Devices: Emit high-frequency waves that are irritating to mammals such as foxes or rodents, but inaudible to humans. Useful in substations, warehouses, or enclosed areas.

Physical Barriers and Exclusion

While active systems are helpful, physical exclusion remains the most reliable form of protection in critical areas:

• Bird netting: Covers process ponds, leach pads, and chemical pools. It provides nearly 100% effectiveness in smaller, high-risk areas.
• Bird Balls (floating spheres): Plastic balls that cover the water surface, reduce water visibility, and prevent birds from landing. They also help reduce evaporation.
• Virtual fencing: An emerging technology adapted from livestock management. Using collars or perimeter sensors, alerts are issued before larger animals cross into hazardous zones.

Detection and Monitoring: Technology that Anticipates Risk

Before deterring animals, you need to know where they are. Modern detection systems allow alerts to be activated only when necessary, reducing false positives:

• Avian radar: Detects flocks kilometers away and can trigger cannons or suspend critical operations only when there is a real risk.
• Thermal cameras with AI: Detect body heat from mammals in total darkness or through dust and heavy equipment. Artificial intelligence classifies whether the target is a person, vehicle, or animal, activating automatic or manual deterrence protocols as appropriate.

The Most Effective Strategy

In mining, no single system works on its own. The ideal combination includes:

• Early detection (radar, thermal cameras, sensors)
• Active deterrence (lasers, bioacoustics, cannons)
• Physical exclusion (netting, Bird Balls, virtual fencing)
  
  

This layered strategy protects wildlife, ensures environmental compliance, and minimizes legal and operational risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a single deterrence system enough?

   No. Mines use layered protection to maximize effectiveness and reduce risk

2. Do birds get used to deterrence systems?

   Yes, which is why technologies are combined, and activation patterns are varied. Lasers and bioacoustic systems are harder for animals to habituate to.

3. Are new technologies expensive?

   Yes, but the cost is justified when compared to legal risk, fines, loss of ESG certification, and damage to corporate reputation.