Design of bio-inspired autonomous aircraft for bird management

Wild bird management at airports and sporting venues is a significant issue. Numerous methods for managing birds are used. Falconry has proven the most effective solution but it is not without its limitations; predatory birds are temperamental, can be difficult to manage, and are unable to be flown at night. The aim of this research is to develop an autonomous unmanned bird, replicating the physical characteristics, and flight behaviour of the Australian apex avian predator, the Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila Audax). This paper presents the design, fabrication, and initial results from wind tunnel testing to characterise the aerodynamic performance of the unmanned aircraft. The unmanned aircraft includes a novel control surface designed to replicate the control functions of birds' tails.