Here’s Why This West Virginia Airport Bought a Dog

Bird strikes are an issue for airlines around the world, but one airport in West Virginia is doing something to help prevent issues in the future.

Yeager Airport bought a dog.

According to WV Metro News, officials at the Charleston airport purchased an18-month-old border collie named Hercules who will be tasked with chasing birds and other animals off the runway.

The hope is that Hercules will be able to reduce deadly animal collisions once he completes his training, which he is currently undergoing in North Carolina on a range of verbal and whistle commands.

“Every airport has problems with bird strikes and wildlife on the airfield,” Yeager Airport assistant director Nick Keller told WV Metro News. “It’s a big safety hazard, so a dog can be a real predator. It will keep birds, deer, coyotes, rabbits away from the airfield.”

In addition to Hercules being trained for his position at the airport, staff members at Yeager must undergo training to handle the dog, who will be outfitted with a reflective vest, safety glasses, and ear protection during his shifts.

Q: Who’s a good boy?
A: This dog, named Hercules, who has been “hired” to chase birds and other wildlife off the runway at West Virginia’s Yeager Airport. https://t.co/3KNKwtfLo7 pic.twitter.com/MxfO3ccx9F

— Talkin’ Birds Radio Show (@TalkinBirds) April 3, 2018

A United States Department of Agriculture wildlife biologist recommended buying the dog to Keller, and the airport said Hercules is expected to arrive at Yeager Airport in May.