The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is exploring innovative strategies to protect livestock from predator attacks, specifically from gray wolves that have been causing significant losses to farms in Oregon. Amidst reports of a pack terrorizing the Prather Ranch, which lost around 40 calves to wolf attacks, the USDA is employing drones as an unconventional deterrent.
Paul Wolf, a USDA district supervisor, has been leading a study on “wolf hazing” since 2022. His efforts include using drones that emit both bright lights and a variety of sounds to deter the wolves. This includes not only recordings of gunshots and loud music but also the dramatic fight scene from the Netflix film “Marriage Story,” featuring actors Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. The goal is clear: to instill a sense of fear in the wolves, signaling that humans should be avoided.
The ranch owners, Jim and Mary Rickert, noted that the wolves, many of which are endangered, pose a unique challenge, as conventional measures of harm are off-limits. The introduction of drone technology has shown promising results; in an earlier trial, the drones successfully reduced cattle losses significantly. In a period when drones were actively deployed, only two cattle were lost compared to 11 in the prior 20 days.
However, the initiative is not without its challenges. Each drone represents a significant investment, costing around $20,000, and operational hurdles such as limited battery life have posed difficulties. Despite these setbacks, the USDA has found some success with the approach, claiming that their interventions have likely saved livestock.
Nonetheless, ranch owner Jim Rickert voiced concerns that the wolves might eventually adapt to these tactics. The potential for wolves to become accustomed to the drones could undermine the long-term effectiveness of this innovative deterrent method.
While the challenges are significant, the USDA’s creative methods highlight an evolving approach to wildlife management, balancing the need to protect livestock while respecting endangered species. With ongoing advancements in technology and methods like these, there is hope for a solution that might benefit both ranchers and wildlife.