In the realm of conservation, dogs are proving to be invaluable partners in the fight to protect wildlife and ecosystems. These “detection dogs” assist biologists by using their powerful sense of smell to locate difficult-to-find targets, from endangered species to invasive plants, and even elusive animal scat. The unique abilities of these dogs have opened new doors for non-invasive research, making them critical allies in conservation efforts.
Collette Yee, a handler with Rogue Detection Teams in Rice, Washington, shares the story of her partnership with Jack, a blue heeler mix. Initially, she struggled to connect with him, as Jack would often take off into the woods, distracted by the scent of anything other than the training exercises. However, once the duo ventured into the field for their first real assignment, everything changed. “He was a completely different dog,” Yee recalls. “He had calmed down. He was curious.” Over time, their partnership flourished, and they became a formidable team in tracking down rare and hidden targets.
Jack’s work has been instrumental in finding a variety of conservation targets, including endangered bumblebee nests, invasive species like green crabs, and even Washington ground squirrels. One of their most significant tasks, however, has been to locate animal scat. Animal waste, particularly scat, holds a wealth of biological information that can provide insight into an animal’s health and behaviors, and collecting it from the wild is far less invasive than capturing or sedating animals.
One particularly memorable moment for Yee and Jack occurred while they were searching for whale scat in the water. After first training Jack on land and in floating containers, Yee was tasked with locating the scat on a moving boat. Observing Jack’s subtle cues—his nostrils flaring and his eyes narrowing—Yee was able to spot the tiny specks of whale waste floating nearby. Their successful find was later confirmed by whale biologists, a testament to the bond and skills the two had developed.
Dogs like Jack are part of an expanding field of conservation detection dogs, whose work is transforming environmental research. By following their noses, these remarkable animals are helping biologists make breakthroughs in wildlife conservation and ecological studies, proving that a dog’s sense of smell is not only a marvel of nature but also a powerful tool for science.