Drones Blast AC/DC to Protect Cattle from Wolves Now!
BREAKING: A groundbreaking experiment is underway near the California-Oregon border as biologists deploy drones equipped with loudspeakers to protect cattle from wolves. These drones, blasting AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” and scenes from popular films, aim to deter apex predators from livestock, marking a significant shift in wildlife management strategies.
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is at the forefront of this innovative research. Their drones release sounds ranging from heavy metal music to human voices—including an urgent clip of Scarlett Johansson from the movie “Marriage Story”—in an attempt to scare wolves away from cattle. The experiment is a response to a troubling rise in wolf attacks, which resulted in the loss of approximately 800 domesticated animals across ten states in 2022.
UPDATE: Active drone patrols are ongoing this summer, particularly in high-conflict areas, as ranchers face increasing challenges from the recovering gray wolf population. After being nearly hunted to extinction, these wolves have rebounded significantly, now numbering in the hundreds in states like Washington and Oregon, and even more near the Great Lakes.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. Ranchers are exploring varied methods of livestock protection, including electrified fencing and guard dogs. However, with the pressure mounting, the introduction of drones represents a novel approach. Researchers like Dustin Ranglack, lead on the project, express optimism about the potential for reduced livestock losses, stating, “If we could reduce those negative impacts of wolves, that is going to be more likely to lead to a situation where we have coexistence.”
The drone technology, which costs around 20,000 USD, utilizes thermal imaging cameras to monitor wolf activity at night. Biologists have reported success in interrupting wolf hunts using preloaded audio clips, which include not just music, but also sounds of gunshots and fireworks. If the set clips fail to deter the wolves, drone operators can improvise by yelling or playing alternative sounds.
Ranchers like Mary Rickert, who owns a cattle ranch north of Mount Shasta, are cautiously optimistic. “I’m very appreciative of what they did,” Rickert notes, “but I don’t think it’s a long-term solution.” Concerns linger about whether wolves might eventually acclimate to the drones and their associated sounds.
While the technology shows promise, there are significant challenges. Drones are impractical for many due to their costs and the need for professional training. Furthermore, ranchers face uncompensated losses from stressed livestock, which can lead to lower birth rates and tougher meat. Rickert warns that without effective long-term solutions, she may have to consider shutting down her business.
Environmental advocates, however, are hopeful. Amaroq Weiss from the Center for Biological Diversity points out that wolves are typically scared of new stimuli, making drones a unique tool in the wildlife management arsenal.
As drone patrols extend south into the Sierra Valley this month, the ongoing research aims to assess the effectiveness of this method in various terrains. As technology evolves, ranchers may soon find themselves with innovative solutions to coexist with wildlife.
The implications of this experiment are profound. If successful, drone technology could revolutionize ranching practices across the United States, offering a humane alternative to lethal measures while promoting coexistence with wildlife. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as researchers continue to monitor and adapt their strategies in the field.
