Previous | Home | Start | Next

Insects, Part 1

   NEXRAD can detect other biological targets in the atmosphere besides birds. The following images show targets from the GSP Greer, SC radar operating in Clear Air mode. The reflectivity image shows a pattern very similar to the stippling that is characteristic of migrating birds. However, notice the low reflectance (in the -4 to -8 dBZ range) and the "banding" pattern visible south of the radar station near the 30 Nautical Mile range ring (the innermost white circle).
   The velocity image shows many targets moving SW. However, notice the low speeds. Consider also the date on these images - 18 June. This is inconsistent with bird migration. These features are, however, all consistent with insect movements.

Insects detected by NEXRAD		Insects carried on NE Winds
dBZ ND -28 -24 -20 -16 -12 -8 -4 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28			kts. ND -64 -50 -36 -26 -20 -10 -1 0 10 20 26 36 50 64 RF
GSP: Greer SC (34.88N 82.22W): Base Ref 124nm / Elev=0.5 deg / 1 km²/pixel Clear Mode / VCP 32 06/18/99 16:34 UTC - Max: 55 dBZ		GSP: Greer SC (34.88N 82.22W): Radial Vel 124nm / Elev=0.5 deg / 1 km²/pixel Clear Mode / VCP 32 06/18/99 16:34 UTC - Max: -58 kts +53 kts

For more information about insects on radar, visit The Radar Entomology Web Site.
Also visit The Dragonfly Migration Project Web Site.
Previous | Home | Start | Next