Beyond delivery and photography, drones are very popular. An Australian business has successfully remotely herded cattle using a drone, a first for the world. The Queensland-based company SkyKelpie demonstrated how drones may transform cattle management at the Beef 2024 event by showcasing its cutting-edge technology.
Since 2017, SkyKelpie, the creation of fourth-generation grazier Luke Chaplain, has been experimenting with using drones in agriculture. Chaplain founded SkyKelpie in 2022 with backing from trade associations in order to commercialize drone mustering.
While graziers have already adopted drones for mustering, they typically pilot them manually. SkyKelpie claims their drones can now autonomously herd cattle, opening doors for more efficient and cost-effective management. The system even features a docking station that allows the drone to land, recharge, and take off on its own schedule.
“You can operate that drone from anywhere in the world,” Chaplain told ABC News, highlighting the potential for remote control with proper connectivity.
SkyKelpie provides training modules on animal behavior, drone technology, and piloting abilities to prepare graziers for success. Additionally, they supply a range of DJI drone types that are ideal for mustering, from the low-cost Air 3 ($2,500) to the expensive Matrice 30T ($16,000). With features like infrared imaging, zoom cameras, and weatherproofing, these drones are capable of successful mustering under a variety of situations.
When combined with DJI’s cutting-edge drone technology, SkyKelpie’s ingenuity represents a major advancement for the agriculture sector. Drones can herd cattle remotely, opening up intriguing new possibilities for efficient livestock management and maybe revolutionizing ranching forever.
