HeroRATS to the Rescue
1/31/2024
A Belgian non-profit, APOPO, is pioneering the use of trained African Giant Pouched Rats from Tanzania, equipped with hi-tech backpacks, to assist in search and rescue operations throughout the world.
According to APOPO, HeroRATs possess a keen sense of smell, agility, and trainability, making them ideal candidates for navigating disaster zones and locating victims. Unlike common rats, African Giant Pouched Rats have a longer lifespan, living up to 8 to 10 years in captivity. This longevity ensures an extended working career post-training.
Engineers at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands have developed multifunctional backpacks for the HeroRATs. The backpacks include a video camera, microphone, speaker for two-way communication and a tracking device. This action triggers real-time wireless audio-visual communication, allowing handlers to be alerted to potential victims.
By leveraging the unique abilities of these HeroRATs and incorporating cutting-edge technology in their backpacks, APOPO aims to revolutionize search and rescue efforts, especially in challenging disaster scenarios. This initiative showcases the diverse ways in which animals can contribute to humanitarian causes. APOPO currently has 104 HeroRATS working in 10 countries.
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