Wandering wildlife could jeopardize mission Published May 27, 2014 By Senior Airman Nicole Sikorski 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Feeding stray animals is not only dangerous for human health, but could also be the cause of a catastrophic animal strike on the airfield. Stray animals pose a large threat to humans in residential neighborhoods and dormitories, but also to the mission and safety of airfield operations. Animals on the airfield can cause a missed flight with critical cargo or worse, lead to lost lives. "When they're on the airfield, they can stir up flocks of birds into the path of departing and arriving aircraft in addition to [being a hazard to antagonize] an aircraft strike," said Master Sgt. Brian Miller, 39th Air Base Wing, flight safety. Stray animals in the populace that are dependent for food and comfortable with people are a dangerous mix, said Miller. Not all animals react the same to humans. Members of Team Incirlik are advised to avoid feeding and petting feral animals due to the risk of diseases they carry. Refraining from feeding and befriending these furry inhabitants will ideally result in their leaving the base and finding another loitering area. Everyone on Incirlik AB plays a critical role in keeping the mission rolling smoothly. The 39th Civil Engineer Squadron entomologists help control the stray population by setting traps. "Please do not open traps, and do not feed stray animals," said Sayilkan Cevher, 39th CES entomology leadman. "If you see stray animals, please [report it.]" Once captured, strays are marked and given to Turkish contractors to be taken 20 kilometers from Incirlik AB and then released. Report any sightings immediately to DSN 676-2968 or Command Post at DSN 676-9920. Before you make a feral animal feel at home on Incirlik AB, remember the risks.