USDA Deploys “Marriage Story” Screams to Deter Wolves, Protect Cattle
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In a surprising turn of events, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is utilizing audio from the critically acclaimed film Marriage Story to scare away wolves and safeguard livestock. The unconventional tactic, recently detailed in a Wall Street Journal report, involves broadcasting the intense argument between Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver to deter predatory behaviour.
Innovative “Wolf Hazing” Technique
The USDA’s strategy, dubbed “wolf hazing,” employs quadcopters equipped with loudspeakers and thermal cameras. These “drone cowhands” blast recordings of the heated exchange from Marriage Story, alongside sounds like fireworks and gunshots. The thermal cameras identify wolves even in darkness, illuminating them with spotlights. According to a USDA district supervisor in Oregon, the goal is to condition wolves to associate humans with negative stimuli.
“I need wolves to respond and know that, hey, humans are bad,” the supervisor explained to the Wall Street Journal.
The program isn’t limited to dramatic film scores; AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” is also being used to repel wolves from vulnerable cattle.
Demonstrated Effectiveness
Early results indicate the method is effective. In southern Oregon, an area previously experiencing 11 cattle deaths over 20 days, the implementation of “wolf hazing” drones reduced livestock losses to just two over a subsequent 85-day period.
A History of sonic Deterrence
The use of sound as a deterrent, and even a form of psychological warfare, is not new to the U.S. government.In 1989, during the invasion of Panama, the U.S. Army deployed aggressive music from artists like Van Halen and The Clash to force General Manuel Noriega out of a bunker at the Vatican embassy. This practice remains a component of military psychological operations.
“Marriage Story” Recognition
Marriage story,released in 2019,garnered notable acclaim,receiving six Academy Award nominations,including Best Actress for Scarlett Johansson and Best Actor for Adam Driver,largely due to their powerfully realistic performances.
Disclaimer: This article reports on a USDA program and dose not offer advice regarding wildlife management or agricultural practices. consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.
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