IAF inducts Karnataka's Mudhol hounds to scare birds on runways: Report

Karnataka's Mudhol hounds have been inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to chase away birds and animals that stray on airport runways and hamper the movement of flights.

According to multiple reports, Deputy chief minister of Karnataka Govind M Karjol handed over four Mudhol hound puppies to the IAF on February 12 on behalf of the Canine Research and Information Centre (CRIC) in Bagalkot district of Karnataka.

However, DH couldn't independently verify the report.

Mudhol Hound, also known as Caravan Hound, is an Indian dog breed which gets its name from Mudhol in Bagalkot district in north Karnataka.

The lean and lanky Mudhol Hound is the first Indian breed to serve the Indian Army, CRPF, CISF, BSF, SSB, ITBP, and police departments of a few states.

The indigenous hounds are said to be highly resistant to diseases and have a good eye vision. CRIC head Mahesh Akashi told The Times of India, that the hounds are all-weather dogs and require minimum grooming.

"Mudhol hounds have earned the reputation of being fiercely loyal to their owners and are excellent hunting dogs. The breed is best known for its stamina, sharpness and agility. the services of the hounds are invaluable," Akashi was quoted as saying.

According to the report, IAF had placed an order for seven of these puppies. The rest of the three puppies will be handed over after six months as per an agreement.

A senior IAF official told the publication that bird-hits are a big problem at several airbases and that the qualities and temperament of the native Mudhol hounds were found suitable for bird scaring.

"To address the problem of ground-dwelling birds such as lapwings and larks, IAF planned dog walking module. IAF chose a domestic breed as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Taking a cue from PM's Mann ki Baat wherein he had praised this breed, we decided to try the Mudhol hound," he said.

Air Force station has been selected as a pilot project and depending on the success of the project, it will be extended to other stations.