Eagles, a predator that has been used by humans for centuries, are also recognized for their skills in fighting high technology.
Dutch police are using eagles to take down small drones flying illegally in the sky after a successful test.
The Netherlands is the first in the world to use eagles to hunt drones. Dutch police spokesman Dennis Janus said: “This is a low-tech solution to a high-tech problem. ”The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that the police seemed to be prepared and they were very confident in the eagle.
Like many other countries, the Netherlands is facing risks from an increasing number of drones invading the country's skies, raising concerns about security in restricted and sensitive areas such as airports.
The Dutch police have been working with professional security company Guard From Above since 2015 to find ways to deal with drones. Using eagles and nets are both items they tested, and obviously using eagles is the cheapest and most effective method. They announced on September 12 that the test results were good.
Japan announced at the end of last year that it would deploy a new type of drone and use the net it carries to bring illegal drones back to the ground.
“We haven't found a better way to intercept drones, but we will continue to explore other possibilities," Janus said. Other methods include controlling drones electronically.
While some animal rights groups have expressed concerns about the eagles' safety, police say the large birds are not in any danger.
“Not a single eagle was injured during the training, and for the drones, not a single one survived,' Janus told AFP. 'These eagles treat drones as prey, intercept them as they fly, grab the prey and land where they feel safe. ”
According to previous media reports, the police described that the eagle's legs and feet gave it sufficient protection, and its claws were very sharp and strong enough to stop plastic drone propellers. However, the police also said that it is wise to develop protective measures for the eagle talons.
It is understood that the purpose of the previous test was to determine the best way for the Eagle to take down the drone.
From now on, Eagles will be deployed to areas where drones may pose a threat to the public, as well as close to sensitive locations such as airports.
It is understood that about 100 police officers will be trained to work with the eagles. After successful testing, Dutch police bought four sea eagle chicks, now just five months old.
This "flying team" in the Netherlands is expected to enter service next summer, and while they are waiting for the chicks to mature, they will first use eagles provided by Guard From Above.
