@Chavoux , I mention E-shepherd to a colleague recently who is connected with several predator organizations in the USA (including the government's Department of Fish and Wildlife). Last week she told me Defenders of Wildlife and at least one other organization (I can't recall who) are interested in the E-shepherd. They will be put on livestock here and tested against wolves and coyotes.
So thanks to the power of this network, we've connected wildlife conservation technology with new groups who will use it to reduce human-wildlife conflict and ultimately prevent the unnecessary killing of predators. So thanks!
·Dave
8 February 2016 9:35pm
This is so great to hear, @dave!
Would it be possible for your contact at Defenders to share updates on WILDLABS.NET about their process of piloting E-shepherd on livestock to deter wolf and coyote attacks?
It would be valuable to learn whether predator responses vary for solitary versus pack-hunting species. The E-shepherd website estimates that "the practical ratio for effective protection of the flock is 1 unit for every 10 sheep". Have these devices already been trialed on livestock in South Africa or Namibia?
@Chavoux, do you know what the cost per unit is?
- Rachel
11 February 2016 12:11am
We are just starting to evaluate but I'm happy to report back on our findings. We also have a paper pending with Journal of Mammology on nonlethal wolf and livestock management findings from a 7 year case study.
Suzanne Asha Stone
Defenders of Wildlife, Idaho
11 February 2016 5:39pm
Thank you so much for contributing to the thread, Suzanne! When will your trials on E-Shepherd be finished? We look forward to hearing more about what the results are revealing to you!
Best,
Nilanga
11 February 2016 8:14pm
Thanks, @Suzanne.Stone ! It would be wonderful if the community could track your progress in this thread. Also looking forward to reading your Journal of Mammology paper.
- Rachel
Rachel Kramer