Former Landfill Methane Flare Burns Birds in N.J.

A nearly invisible and super-hot methane flare at a former landfill in Lyndhurst, N.J., is burning migrating birds like American kestrels, leaving many unable to fly.

The landfill owner, New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, is working with Fish and Wildlife and the state Department of Environmental Protection to "develop an appropriate and effective interim solution to this matter."

NJ.com has more details:

A methane flare at a former landfill in Lyndhurst is burning migrating birds, local birders say.

A burner used to siphon off built-up methane at the remediated Kingsland Landfill is injuring birds, especially American kestrels, said Don Torino, executive director of the Bergen County Audubon Society.

The methane flame is nearly invisible and its heat travels high into the air, acting almost like a trap in the middle of what has become a perfect habitat for birds, Torino said. The flame burns the birds' feathers, leaving many unable to fly.

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