Scarecrow’s Ultima is a Bio-acoustic bird control unit that autonomously collates compliant data records of any bird control activity. It centres on a vehicle-mounted Tablet PC, GPS receiver and a bio-acoustic processor unit, containing the distress calls of 14 species, loaded to the airports specification.
The Ultima system is designed to enable airfield operations staff to focus on their physical job and not worry about the compliance of data records. This optimises time spent working on the airfield, while ensuring data conformity and reducing the possibility of human error.
Tom Diamond, group commercial manager, said: “It was always the aim to ensure that Ultima was providing the functionality that the industry demanded. We have welcomed input from users to help us develop the product. For example, we have updated the software to allow the users to tailor the system to fit their requirements, such as the ability to choose what additional bird control equipment can be logged in addition to bio-acoustics.”
A large number of airports around the world have tenders out for the supply of Ultima. In addition to Delhi and Christchurch, smaller airports such as Jersey and Cambridge City are also already using the system. Scarecrow is to supply Ultima to another Indian airport and an airport in Libya. There are also a number of other tenders out in the Middle East and Africa, and Scarecrow is in talks with several British airports.
Diamond said: “Our instant sales were flattering; we did not expect the industry to accept Ultima’s value so quickly. If our historical product developments are anything to go by, we will continue to see exponential growth. We are already seeing interest rising over time as the product gains recognition and momentum.”
Airports can request a full demonstration and, according to Diamond, “when they see the level of functionality available for the price they are
blown away”.
Instant access to detailed reporting
Scarecrow has supplied Ultima to several airports, including Jersey, Cambridge City, Delhi International and Christchurch International.
Scarecrow is constantly developing its product line; it is currently working with other airside equipment manufacturers to simplify and maximise safety compliance.
In terms of Ultima, current developments include a range of optional modules, all within wildlife control, such as the use of satellite imagery to aid reporting. Diamond explained that this allows airport management to see a direct visual representation of their bird control activity, highlighting exactly where any dispersal has taken place. “This emphasises the ‘red zones’ on the airfield and this is crucial when considering habitat management. Other modules include firearm management and video logging,” he said.
Serving the current demand for Ultima is a key focus for Scarecrow in 2008. Diamond also highlighted the importance of ensuring that staff can demonstrate that they have done everything in their power to avoid an incident.
“Any development within the area of safety carries a huge level of importance for the industry in general. High quality bird control equipment is a vital component of airside safety. The Ultima technology allows airport operators to gain instant access to detailed reporting. This information allows the airport staff to prove due diligence and demonstrate best practice models, and in today’s litigious society this data could be worth millions,” said Diamond.
