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Huge locusts swarms continue to plague Africa and Asia, but drones might be the piece of technology to stop them from spreading too far.
What’s the news:
- According to The Conversation, drones may be the right technology to stop locust swarms from spreading too far. In nature, birds, spiders and wasps can all stop locusts from swarming different crop fields.
- Drones may be the latest tool to help stop the spread.
“Drones are now providing an innovative alternative to the more expensive use of light aircrafts. These aerial vehicles can be used to remotely sense areas, carry out pest surveillance and monitor crop growth.
“They also allow for targeted pesticide application through atomiser sprayers that deliver a fine, even spray from liquid.”
- Drones were used to Rajasthan, India, to clear out some swarms, according to The Conversation.
Other methods to stop locusts
- Earlier this year, China was expected to send an army of 100,000 ducks to Pakistan to help clear out swarms of locusts, which had begun to invade the country and eat drops, which I wrote about for the Deseret News.
- Ducks are known to eat close to 200 locusts per day, which can make them for effective than pesticides. Researchers wondered at the time whether or not ducks can be effective.