Guest blog: Helicopter pilot Megan Klopper
"Can we try
get closer? Maybe a little higher..."
"Ok
great!"
"Can we go
around again?"
This was a normal day in the office with "M&M". Meg
and I would be hugging the cliffs flying slowly as we scanned them for any
nests, white markings or parents flying along with us. It was exhausting! If
there were a degree for multitasking, I would have my masters. I would
constantly be monitoring the machine, airspeed, height, planning escape routes,
watching the wind and responding to Meg's many flying directions while she hung
out the side of the helicopter, GPS and map in hand, like a spider-monkey. It
had to have been some of my best and most intense flying yet!
I got my Private license last year and have been trying to build up
hours for my Commercial license, this was the most exciting hour building I had
done so far! Having flown for the project in 2012, I was so excited that
we had the opportunity to help again this year. Flying in the Cederberg
between beautiful untouched mountains with deep valleys, sheer cliffs and
breath taking waterfalls was such a treat. Flying with a purpose and a
goal for Meg's Black Eagle survey was incredible. With the helicopters we
managed to spot over 30 nests in matter of days.
It was a once in a lifetime experience that only a handful of pilots
got to enjoy thanks to Meg and my instructor Stefan. Thank you and good luck
with the rest of your research, we hope to see you soon! :)
Megan Klopper
Base4Aviation
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| Megan M and Megan K prepare for take off |
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| Signs of the eagles |
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| Some nests are more tucked away than others |
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| An example of a Black Eagle nest seen from the helicopter |
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