Italian Birdstrike Identification Center I.B.I.C.

The Italian Birdstrike Identification Center (I.B.I.C.)

Species identification in a wildlife strike is critically important information, yet often difficult to obtain. In most cases, the impact leaves only partial traces: scattered feathers, tissue fragments, blood smears. A complete carcass is rarely recovered, and even when it is, visual identification may be uncertain.

To address this need, the Italian Birdstrike Identification Center (I.B.I.C.) has been established — a specialised scientific laboratory for identifying species from biological remains. I.B.I.C. was created through a convention between ENAC and the Department of Earth Sciences of the University of Turin, in collaboration with the Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Carmagnola and the University of Eastern Piedmont.

Identification methodologies

I.B.I.C. uses an integrated approach combining several complementary techniques:

• Morphological feather analysis: macroscopic and microscopic examination of feathers allows, in many cases, identification of the species through comparison with reference collections. The laboratory holds collections covering more than 90% of species recorded in Italy.
• DNA genetic analysis: when morphological analysis is inconclusive, or when only soft tissue or blood traces are available, DNA extraction and analysis is employed. This technique enables reliable identification even from highly degraded samples.

The laboratory’s objective is to identify approximately 90% of submitted samples to species level, with an average turnaround time of approximately one month from receipt.

How to collect samples

The quality of identification depends largely on the correct collection and preservation of samples. It is essential to follow a few key rules:

General rules

• Always wear the single-use gloves provided in the kit and change them for each different sample
• Treat each impact zone on the same aircraft as a separate sample
• Where possible, collect both feathers and soft tissue
• In the case of serious incidents with operational consequences, collect all available evidence

Collection of feathers and plumage

• Remove feathers by pulling them gently — do not cut them: the calamus (quill base) is essential for genetic analyses
• Sample feathers from different body regions (wings, tail, breast, back) and with different characteristics (colour, size, shape)
• Do not use adhesives, tape or glue, which may contaminate or damage the material

Collection of tissue and blood

• For dry or desiccated material: clean the surface with the alcohol-impregnated wipes provided in the kit
• For fresh material: dab gently with the wipes

Photographic documentation

• Always photograph carcasses or significant remains, even with a simple smartphone
• Photograph the subject from different angles and with adequate lighting
• Photographs may be attached to the ECCAIRS2 report

What to avoid

• Do not send whole carcasses: they are bulky, deteriorate rapidly and are unnecessary
• Do not dissect or open carcasses
• Do not collect large quantities of fresh soft tissue, which degrades rapidly

The collection kit

I.B.I.C. provides airport operators with standardised sample collection kits. Each pre-addressed envelope contains:

• 1 event data recording form
• 1 pair of single-use nitrile gloves
• 2 alcohol-impregnated wipes
• 2 minigrip bags, 15×22 cm
• 1 minigrip bag, 20×36 cm
• 1 FFP2 face mask