Livestock reaction to UAV flight

Flown by John Scott, Digital Agriculture Extension Coordinator, Purdue Extension

A common concern when working with UAVs around livestock is whether or not the animals will be disturbed or frightened by the buzzing noise. Improper use of a drone, or any other piece of equipment, around animals could result in issues or accidents; however, the Purdue operators rarely run into any issues when conducting flights near livestock. Livestock are more curious than fearful of drones when operating at appropriate speeds and in close proximity to the animals.

Here are a few tips when operating a drone around animals:

  • Do not use fast movements near the animals.
  • Operate the drone at appropriate speeds and altitudes.
  • If animals acknowledge and show interest in the UAV, it is best to fly in a consistent matter and not erratically.

The video below shows heifers reaction to a UAV flight

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