How Drones Are Used To Protect Livestock From Wolves

Some parts of the country are using loud drones to scare away wolves to protect livestock. Some of the most effective measures have been playing AC/DC 'Thunderstruck,' the sound of fireworks, or human yelling to scare off the predators. The method has been used recently in California and Oregon, and other places are taking notice.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is working to reduce the number of wolf-related incidents with livestock. They are able to locate the wolves even in poor visibility by using thermal cameras.

Wolf Depredations Of Livestock Increase In Wisconsin

For the past few years, wolf kills have increased, and more incidents have been occurring. Wolves are a federally protected animal, and they have no natural predator. 87 animals, including cattle, domestic livestock, and dogs, were killed in 2024. That's up from 69 in 2023 and 49 in 2022.

Minnesota Had Even More Wolf Incidents With Livestock

In 2024, Minnesota had 136 animals killed by wolves. That's the highest number since they started keeping track in the 1980s. Farmers have been paid out a total of $188,000 for their losses in 2024.

Is It Legal To Harass A Gray Wolf?

In Minnesota, you are legally allowed to harass a wolf if it comes within 500 yards of people, buildings, dogs, livestock, pets, or other animals. Any harassment that results in physical injury to the gray wolf is prohibited.

Should The Drones Be Used In Minnesota + Wisconsin?

Some Minnesota and Wisconsin Farmers are struggling with wolf depredations, and this could be a non-lethal option, considering we have a considerable amount of livestock being lost each year. We'll have to wait and see if the drone plan works over time.