Laserherding

Laserherding is a speculative method of animal management that proposes using lasers to guide livestock. The concept involves projecting beams of light onto the ground or in front of animals, creating a visible barrier or pathway that the animals are encouraged to follow. This technique is often discussed in the context of drone technology, where a drone equipped with a laser could potentially be used to herd animals from a distance, reducing the need for physical presence or herding dogs.

The theoretical advantages of laserherding include minimizing stress on animals by avoiding direct physical contact and the potential for more precise control over large herds in open areas. It could also offer a less labor-intensive approach to herding compared to traditional methods. However, laserherding is not a widely adopted or scientifically proven practice. Concerns exist regarding the potential impact of lasers on animal vision and behavior, as well as the effectiveness of such a system across various terrains, weather conditions, and species. Further research and development would be necessary to assess its feasibility, safety, and ethical implications before it could be considered a practical tool for animal husbandry.