May 27, 2025

Two very special employees are patrolling the runways at West Virginia International Yeager Airport—and they’re covered in fur. Hercules and Ned, a pair of border collies, are part of the airport’s Wildlife Hazard Management program, where their job is to chase away birds and other animals that could pose a danger to aircraft.

Airports often struggle with wildlife on or near runways, which can lead to dangerous bird strikes or collisions. That’s where Hercules and Ned come in. Trained specifically for this task, the energetic border collies use their herding instincts to safely move animals off airport property without harming them.

“They’re very effective and very safe,” said airport spokesperson Paige Withrow. “The wildlife sees them as predators, so they naturally clear the area when they’re on patrol.”

The dogs aren’t just out there alone. Each has a dedicated handler who works with them daily, ensuring they stay focused and well-cared-for. The airport also uses technology and other methods to manage wildlife, but Hercules and Ned bring a unique, eco-friendly solution to the job.

This four-legged team has become a beloved part of the airport’s operations—and a bit of a local attraction. Travelers often spot the dogs in their bright safety vests, riding in special airport vehicles, or trotting along the runways, hard at work.

“It’s a win-win,” said Withrow. “The dogs love the job, the passengers love seeing them, and our runways stay safer.”

Disclaimer: This blog post is for edutainment purposes only and may not be entirely accurate.