Dutch flying Eagles intercept Drones In an innovative approach to drone control, the Dutch Police have partnered with a specialized raptor training company, "Guard From Above," to train actual eagles to intercept and take down unwanted drones. This unique method has gained attention due to the increasing concerns over drone activity and their associated risks.
The Training Process
According to the video, the training process involves teaching the eagles to view drones as prey. This wasn't as challenging as expected; the birds instinctively treated these flying devices similarly to how they would interact with natural prey. Once an eagle successfully intercepts a drone, it often carries it to a secure area. Interestingly, the eagle may initially not realize the drone is a mere plastic device, but trainers reward them with treats following a successful take-down, reinforcing the behavior.
Safety Measures
One of the critical points highlighted in the video is the safety of both the eagles and the general public. When the eagles capture a drone, they do so in a manner that prevents the drone from crashing down on bystanders, which could lead to severe injury. The video also mentions that the eagles' talons are equipped with protective scales, reducing the risk of injury during interception.
Research and Development
The Dutch Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) was involved in assessing the safety and effectiveness of this innovative initiative. They studied the potential impact on the birds and helped establish protocols to ensure that both the eagles and the public remain safe during these operations.
Conclusion
The use of trained eagles by the Dutch National Police represents a fascinating intersection of wildlife and technology. As drones become more prevalent, creative solutions like this one may provide effective methods for managing drone interference while respecting animal welfare and public safety. What are your thoughts on using animals for drone control? Do you think this could be a viable solution globally? Feel free to share your opinions or any relevant experiences!
