In an unexpected but charming twist, Heathrow Airport has unveiled a new structure that’s turning heads – and not just of the human variety. A newly installed bird hide, cleverly designed to mimic an air traffic control tower, is now open to the public on one of the airport’s 13 nature reserves.
This offbeat installation, known as the ‘Nature Traffic Control Tower’, sits quietly near one of the world’s busiest travel hubs, offering wildlife enthusiasts the chance to observe local species without straying far from the tarmac.
While the design playfully echoes the aviation world, the purpose is a serious one. The hide is part of Heathrow’s broader environmental mission – the ‘nature positive plan’ – aimed at reducing the airport’s impact on surrounding ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity.
Visitors can book a free birdwatching session or a guided nature tour led by one of Heathrow’s ecologists through Eventbrite. These tours not only offer a chance to spot wildlife but also aim to educate the public on conservation efforts in the shadow of jet engines.
What’s Hiding in the Grass?
Heathrow’s reserves are no small feat in terms of biodiversity. Home to 79 bird species, including kingfishers and barn owls, as well as rare spiders and a vast range of butterflies, the land has become a safe haven for creatures both common and rare.
According to the airport, the new bird hide is meant to help raise awareness of the ongoing conservation initiatives. These include:
- Expanding conservation-managed land
- Improving water quality through advanced surface water systems
- Investing in the restoration of UK forests and peatlands
Since 2022, Heathrow has channelled £250 million into sustainability and carbon reduction projects.
Becky Coffin, Communities and Sustainability Director at Heathrow, said: “Our work to support nature happens all year round – from introducing cattle to graze habitats in spring, to discovering new-to-science fungi in our woodlands in autumn, and rotational hedgerow management in winter.
“Maintaining and restoring nature is a priority for Heathrow, and we hope this birdwatching experience helps bring our nature-positive plan to life and shows travellers that Heathrow is committed to biodiversity, giving them greater confidence in their travel choices.”
From Runways to Wildlife Trails
Jerry Dyer, the familiar face behind popular livestream channel Big Jet TV, was quick to show support for the initiative.
“The nature traffic control tower isn’t just a fun nod to aviation, it marks (the airport’s) serious commitment to protecting local wildlife and making real investments in sustainability,” he said.
“With the new nature positive plan pledging to support local biodiversity and ecosystems, Heathrow is proving it’s not just about connecting people around the globe but caring for the planet too.”
At first glance, a fake air traffic control tower in a bird reserve might sound like a quirky gimmick. But this installation symbolises Heathrow’s growing focus on eco-conscious development and community engagement.
By blending aviation aesthetics with environmental action, the airport is sending a clear message: nature and industry can coexist – and maybe even thrive together.
