SAFE

The now disused airport near Bo has no record of bird strikes devastation to rural land and existing homes that developing Gatwick or Heathrow further would cause, not to mention the colossal expense and disruption. Did I mention that those wanting to re-open the airport want to create the world’s first aircraft re-cycling operation? Instead of parking redundant aircraft in the desert – the aviation equivalent of landfill, parts and materials could be re-used. There we have it: agriculture and housing being championed by conservationists, because they think its greener than an airport; which, when you look deeper and wider, is just not the case. What has this got to do with a leisurely stroll in England’s green and pleasant land with your binoculars? Everything! The beauty of birds includes all the redness of beak and claw. Flesh tearing and cannibalism are as much part of avian life as pretty feathers and charming song. We have to understand everything that natural life encompasses to appreciate the wonder of nature, not just the Holywood version. When it comes to the ‘real’ human world we need to delve deep into the realities, too, not just hug trees and aspire to veganism. Bo Beolens runs fatbirder.com and other websites. He has written a number of books Do you agree, or disagree, with Bo? Email us at birdwatching@bauermedia.co.uk