Japan is employing advanced laser-equipped drones to protect its poultry industry from avian influenza, a persistent threat. Technology firm NTT has developed an automated system to deter wild birds, the primary carriers of the virus, from poultry farms.
This initiative was prompted by a severe outbreak in Chiba Prefecture between January and February 2025, which led to the culling of over 3.3 million chickens. This event highlighted the critical need for effective preventative strategies for poultry farmers. The collaboration between NTT and the Chiba government has resulted in autonomous navigation drones that deploy when sensors detect wild birds near farm perimeters.
The BB102 model drones project a dynamic beam of dispersed red and green light streams, colors scientifically recognized for their effectiveness in repelling various bird species, including pigeons, crows, starlings, as well as wildlife like deer. The intermittent, rhythmic flashing prevents birds from habituating to the light or finding safe landing zones, ensuring their effective deterrence.
This advanced technology represents a significant improvement over traditional methods such as manual labor, noise deterrents, or chemical applications.
NTT has announced that government subsidies will be available to encourage widespread adoption, making this sophisticated preventative technology more accessible to rural producers. This initiative is a crucial step in bolstering biosecurity measures and ensuring the long-term viability of Japan's poultry farming sector against the ongoing global challenge of avian influenza.
Avian influenza outbreaks have been a recurring issue in Japan, with significant culling events reported throughout early 2025. The development and deployment of these laser drones signify a proactive, technologically driven response to mitigate devastating losses and protect both the agricultural economy and public health. According to the US Department of Agriculture, such preventive measures can significantly reduce economic losses associated with bird flu outbreaks, which in the past amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars.