Source link : https://earth-news.info/general/dramatic-high-altitude-encounter-migrating-shorebird-taken-down-by-raptor-at-3000-meters/
A remarkable new study published in ESA Journals has shed light on a dramatic predator-prey encounter occurring far above the earth’s surface. Using cutting-edge high-resolution tracking technology, researchers have documented a migrating shorebird being killed by a raptor at an astonishing altitude of 3,000 meters. This unprecedented observation not only reveals the high-risk challenges faced by migratory birds in mid-flight but also provides fresh insights into avian behavior and predator dynamics at extreme heights. The findings offer a rare glimpse into the perilous journey of shorebirds and the complex interactions shaping their survival during migration.
Migrating Shorebird Falls Victim to Raptor Attack at Extreme Altitude
High-resolution tracking data from the latest ESA satellite mission has uncovered a rare and dramatic wildlife encounter at an altitude of nearly 3000 meters. During its annual migration, a shorebird became prey to an unexpected attacker – a raptor striking from the thin air above mountainous terrain. This unprecedented observation challenges previous assumptions about predation risks and the dynamics of avian interactions in extreme environments. The GPS-based tracking devices recorded a sudden acceleration, followed by erratic flight patterns, confirming the fatal ambush.
Key insights from the tracking data include:
- Altitude of attack: 2950 meters above ground level
- Duration of chase: approximately 3 minutes
- Speed of raptor strike:…
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Author : earthnews
Publish date : 2025-07-21 16:31:00
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