A strategy for minimizing waterfowl deaths on toxic waterbodies

1. A deterrent was used in conjunction with engineering and management tech niques to discourage nomadic waterfowl from landing and remaining on toxic waterbodies. 2. Four behavioural traits of nomadic waterfowl were exploited in the devel opment of the deterrent: nocturnal movements, attraction to reflective surf aces, fear of diurnal predators, and naivety to local conditions and deterr ents. 3. A rotating, intermittent beacon directed at a shallow angle across the w ater surface effectively discouraged most waterfowl. This beacon was floati ng and solar-powered and built to be acid resistant. 4. A series of deterrents, with gas-powered sonic guns and provision of cle an alternative waterbodies nearby, significantly lessened the likelihood of waterfowl injury or mortality on toxic waterbodies.