They are not birds or planes; they are drones. But Americans wonder who flies them and why there are so many of them.

Mysterious drone sightings have recently been spotted in eastern states, prompting lawmakers to seek answers.

Both the governor of New York and the former governor of Maryland called for transparency and clarity on social media about who controls them. President-elect Donald Trump did the same, calling for the planes to be shot down until the government can inform the public.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security said the drone sightings do not pose a threat to national or public safety because many of them involve “manned aircraft operating lawfully.”

White House national security and communications adviser John Kirby reiterated federal authorities’ statement at a news conference Thursday, adding that there was no evidence of foreign involvement by coastal vessels.

Where are you from?“Drone sightings” are a concern, but these theories could explain what is happening

Timeline: Mysterious drones appear in the east

November 18:

• According to the Asbury Park Press, part of the USA TODAY Network, witness reports have spotted several large drones about 6 feet in diameter in New Jersey at night, usually between dusk and 11 p.m.
• According to the Morris County District Attorney’s Office in New Jersey, law enforcement patrol officers discovered the drones. Prosecutors say the various agencies, including federal and state law enforcement partners, would “coordinate, monitor and investigate drone activity.”