What is the role of Hercules and Ned at West Virginia International Yeager Airport?

Hercules and Ned are border collies employed as wildlife patrol officers at CRW Airport, responsible for deterring birds and other creatures from the airfield to ensure flight safety.

How have the canine patrols affected wildlife strikes at CRW Airport?

Since Hercules and Ned joined the wildlife management team, bird strikes at CRW Airport have decreased by over 70 percent.

Do Hercules and Ned also interact with passengers?

Yes, Hercules also serves as a therapy dog, providing comfort to passengers in the airport's waiting areas, and both dogs are popular attractions for meet-and-greets.

Home / Lifestyle / Airport's Elite Canine Wildlife Patrol

Airport's Elite Canine Wildlife Patrol

28 Apr

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Summary

Border collies Hercules and Ned patrol West Virginia International Yeager Airport.
Canine patrols reduced bird strikes by over 70 percent.
The dogs also serve as therapy animals for passengers.

At West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW), border collies Hercules and Ned are on duty five days a week, performing critical wildlife control. Their primary role is to deter birds and other creatures from the airfield, thereby enhancing the safety of air travel. Since Hercules joined in 2018 and Ned in 2024, CRW has seen a significant decrease in wildlife strikes, reporting over a 70 percent reduction.

These intelligent and energetic dogs, trained by facilities like Flyaway Geese, are adept at dispersing flocks and deterring animals. Their presence has led to only one reported wildlife strike incident as of January 2026. Beyond their aviation safety duties, Hercules and Ned have garnered a substantial following on social media and are beloved by passengers and crew, often participating in meet-and-greets.