Crime-fighting eagles trained by cops to take down rogue drones that pose a danger to the public
Dutch police become first in the world to employ birds of prey to tackle sky menace
POLICE in Holland are employing eagles to take down illegal drones which invade the country's air space.
The force has become the first in the world to recruit birds of prey to tackle the increasing number of dodgy drones in their skies.
"It's a low-tech solution to a hi-tech problem," police spokesman Dennis Janus said.
Despite concerns raised by animal rights group, the police say the birds are not in any danger.
A number of tests have been conducted since January and police seem confident about the programme.
The eagles will now be deployed whenever drones are believed to be posing a threat to the public or flying close to airports or sensitive areas.
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The aim of the tests was to determine the best way to bring down the drones.
“None of the eagles were hurt, but as for the drones, none of them survived,” said Janus.
“The eagles see the drones as prey and intercept them as they are flying, before landing where they feel safe with the drone still in their claws.”
Dutch police have now bought their own birds, which have reached five months old.
“We haven’t found any other method to intercept the drones, but we are continuing to explore other possibilities,” Janus said.
About 100 officers will be trained to work with the eagles.
After successful trials, Dutch police bought four sea eagle chicks.
As the police wait for their birds to mature, they will be using eagles supplied by a specialist company 'Guard From Above'.
The Dutch 'flying squad' is expected to to be active next summer.