Researchers discovered a "googly eyes" optical illusion that terrifies raptors (eagles) and corvids (crows) so badly, they remain afraid of the eyes, and they will not return to the area where it is visible. The eyes were successfully used to keep th

Scientists in France have developed an optical illusion using looming googly eyes to deter predatory birds from airport runways, reducing bird-plane collisions. This visual superstimulus exploits the birds’ keen eyesight, triggering an avoidance response by simulating an imminent collision. Tested at Lourdes-Tarbes-Pyrénées Airport, the illusion significantly decreased bird presence without habituation over five weeks. The discovery may also have broader applications for protecting birds from other human-made hazards like wind turbines.