Bowfishing

[wrgnc]

I live on Lake Norman in NC. We were fortunate to establish a colony 25 years ago. Last year we had 40 pairs in 6o gourds, Troyers vastly favored by the birds over houses in the ideal dock location I have.

Anyway, has anyone heard of bowfishing? Basically it is hunting for carp with a bow and arrow. That may sound innocuous, but they like to do it at night with a boat that has multiple spotlights to illuminate the water to attract and allow seeing the carp. It is so bright that it will awaken a human at night if he lives on the lakefront.

My question: would you experts think that this level of light at irregular intervals could endanger martin nesting, egg laying, and fledging?

I am trying to stay ahead of the bowfishermen who do not think about unintended consequences. Newspaper contact may be next.

But what do you all think? How about consequences for other birds and wildlife?

I do not mind the bow and arrow. It is the lights.

Bill Green MD

[Louise Chambers]

I don't think the lights would bother martins - they put up with/are not bothered by all types of nighttime security lights.