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Drones Could Herd Rhinos From Poaching Hotspots


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Rhinos flee the drone.

University of Brighton researchers found that drones and harsh siren sounds were most effective in getting endangered southern white rhinos to leave poaching hotspots in national parks and reserves in South Africa.

Credit: Samuel Penny

Researchers at the ­niversity of Brighton (­oB) in the ­.K. have found that drones and harsh siren sounds were most effective in getting endangered southern white rhinos to leave poaching hotspots in national parks and reserves in South Africa.

The ­oB study considered alternatives to the vehicle and foot patrols typically used by these parks and reserves to keep the animals away from poachers.

Said ­oB's Samuel Penny, "We found the drones to be a much more effective tool at manipulating rhino movement than the siren, mainly due to their long transmission range and capability of pursuing rhinos over long distances. The drone's maneuverability also allows for more precise control of rhino movement, as it can be flown into positions in response to changes in rhino direction."

From New Scientist
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Abstracts Copyright © 2019 SmithBucklin, Washington, DC, ­SA


 

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