On a par with Heligoland in Germany and Fair Isle near Shetland, Utsira is known for its rare bird life. The islands are located far out to sea and act as the last and first stop before and after an ocean crossing. However, the large coastal migration of birds goes further inland along the coast of Karmøy.
Since Utsira has one so central place in Norway's ornithological history, then Utsira municipality has long stressed future developers of Utsira Nord; We can't be fooled when the first offshore offshore wind pilot is planned at Utsira Nord.
Here is a bunch of bird projects that Utsira municipality assists with:
Lomvi project:
two-year NINA project supported by Aker? Capture of 20 lomvi in 2022 and 2023, with GPS tracking during the breeding season (for GPS tag later) and a light log that tracks light intensity and areas of residence in the winter months. Utsira municipality participates in trapping and arranging for researchers. We have signaled wishes for the presentation of data afterwards in the future research/visitor centre.
Spoor Camera:
DWO and Solvind AS have tested AI/CI technology, which recognizes birds. Takes pictures of birds and the flight path of birds that pass up to two km from the camera (larger birds such as gannets are recognizable at +500 metres). Must expire 2023.03.29. Utsira municipality has stressed a joint report from both cameras
Radar bird monitoring:
NINA project (ground support paid by Å Energi/Ori..) Geir Mobakken verifies radar image to art. Radar image can take in flocks of 1 mile. Agreement between Utsira Bird Station and NINA. The project also has a radar at Lista Lighthouse for comparison of moves past Lista and Utsira Nord. The radar does not have ionizing radiation. Read more about radiation at the Norwegian Working Environment Authority.
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