GM Baltimore Operations—Saving Birds One Transmission Rack at a Time

GM Baltimore Operations employee and UAW Local 239 member Anna Molina recently made an unusual discovery while at work: a bird nest on an empty hybrid transmission rack, complete with two baby birds inside.

Known for its green operations, including low energy-use lighting, rooftop solar array and acertified wildlife habitat, GMBO employees were surprised (and curious) when the birds—thought to be mourning doves—found themselves inside the plant.

“In the 11 years of manufacturing here, no one has ever seen something like this,” said Mary Ann Brown, Baltimore Operations plant communications manager. “Employees were really excited to find the birds and then be a part of saving them.”

Unsure where the nest came from or how long it was on the transmission rack, group leader Alan Betz was careful to return the rack to its original location rather than stashing it outside where the nest might be disturbed. The plant employees were careful not to touch the birds as they removed the nest from the rack. Betz hoped that the chicks would survive and that the mother hadn’t strayed too far and would accept the chicks back.

He was right. Although no one has seen the mother, GM Baltimore Operations was proud to report just recently that the young birds are healthy and growing.