not important • August 1, 2025 5:47 PM

https://cyberguy.com/robot-tech/army-tests-robot-coyotes-prevent-catastrophic-bird-strikes/

=Why settle for a regular robot when you can have a robot coyote? That’s the innovative question the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is answering as they roll out robot coyotes for airfield wildlife control. These cybernetic prairie predators are a creative solution to a very real problem.

Airfields face a constant battle with wildlife. Birds, rabbits, and even deer can wander onto runways, creating dangerous situations for aircraft and crews. Birds are the biggest threat. When sucked into engines or hitting windscreens, they can cause catastrophic damage. In fact, the threat is so serious that the US Civil Air Administration once built a “chicken gun” to fire bird carcasses at planes to test their resilience.

Traditional deterrents, like drones, dogs, falcons, and even gas-powered cannons, have been used for years. But wildlife adapts quickly, and these methods don’t always keep animals away for long.

The idea is simple: most animals instinctively avoid coyotes, so why not use that fear to keep them away from airfields?

four-wheeled Traxxas X-Maxx motorized cars, which can reach speeds of 20 mph. Each vehicle carries a plastic coyote dummy, blending just the right amount of realism and intimidation, all for about $3,000 each.

The robot coyotes have already been tested at several military airfields, including Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fort Campbell, and Naval Air Station Whiting Field. These early trials showed promise. The robot coyotes successfully deterred birds and other animals, helping to keep runways clear and safe.

Future versions may include programmed routes, exclusion zones, and the ability to identify specific species. Imagine a robot coyote that can recognize a flock of geese and adjust its tactics on the fly.

The ERDC and USDA-NWRC are continuing to refine these robot coyotes for airfield wildlife control.

New features are on the horizon, including onboard computers, artificial intelligence, cameras, and sensors. The aim is to create a robust system that can operate autonomously, navigate tough terrain, and adapt to changing conditions. These advances could revolutionize how airfields, and perhaps even commercial airports, manage wildlife hazards.=