Is there not a way they can put some type of screen over the intake that allows sufficient air in but nothing larger than a sparrow?
I think the screen would have to be pretty stout to withstand a strike, and likely choke the engine.
No rocket scientist, just my 2c.
Aloha
When I worked on the TV Movie Miracle Landing, one shot was of the Jet taking off. As best I can remember, due to the speed the camera car could go with the jets min t/o speed of 170 the camera car was placed further down the runway and started rolling as the pilot throttled up. the camera car reached 100, or so as the jet lifted off around 170. It was unusual but the movie crew consisted of only the Camera Operator, The Sound Mixer, and the driver, for weight reasons. All 3 commented the were scared S...less"
The reason I say this is what size screen would stop even a sparrow at those speeds? I think a better solution is to find out how to keep the birds away. A moderen Scarecrow, without straw.