Thermal aerial culling for the control of vertebrate pest populations
Thermal-assisted aerial culling is emerging as an effective and humane tool for managing invasive species like feral pigs and fallow deer, which threaten agriculture and biodiversity. Traditional visual culling often struggles in dense forests, leading to inefficiencies and wounding. This study, conducted in South Australia, found that integrating thermal imaging significantly improved detection—spotting 72% of pigs and 53% of deer in thick vegetation. With trained crews and advanced equipment, the method doubled culling efficiency and ensured 100% humane incapacitation with zero wounding. These results support broader adoption of thermal-assisted methods as a conservation-friendly solution. Not only does this strategy reduce ecological damage from invasive species, it also aligns with ethical hunting practices by minimizing suffering. While equipment and training are barriers, further research, investment and collaboration with hunters, land managers and conservationists can expand its reach. This is a win for wildlife, habitat preservation and responsible stewardship.
