Cairngorm Reindeer Herd issues plea after drone spooked pregnant cows
Reindeer herders in the Cairngorms have issued a plea to drone users after the herd was spooked by a machine flying overhead.
The incident resulted in the free roaming herd - including pregnant cows - panicking and running.
In a post on social media, the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is asking drone users to be extremely sensitive while flying in areas where the reindeer roam and not to deliberately target them.
It has also led to a lively online debate with some people calling for drones to be banned in wild areas, or for tighter controls to be introduced on their use.
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The drone was spotted while the herders were heading out to the herd which then panicked.
“This is particularly worrying as some of the cows are now heavily pregnant and only a few weeks off calving,” the post stated.
“Thankfully, in this instance herders were not far away and were able to move the reindeer to a safe location.
“However, due to the free ranging nature of the herd there are plenty of times we are not with the herd and cannot help.”
The post stated that the area and hills are getting busier and as a result, more drones are in use.
It continued: “We therefore politely request that drone users are extremely sensitive whilst flying in areas where the reindeer roam and do not deliberately target them.
“The reindeer were on leased land and should feel safe.
“The same goes for other wildlife - do not fly where you’ll disturb or endanger animals and wildlife as stated in the Drone Code.
“This is particularly critical as we enter the breeding season for many birds here in the hills.”
The drone code published by the Civil Aviation Authority states it is against the law to fly a drone or model aircraft without having the required IDs.
People can also be fined for breaking the law when flying and in the most serious cases, can be sent to prison.
In the wake of the incident involving the reindeer, many people have taken to social media to post their views with some calling for a change in the law, or for the national park to be a drone-free zone.
One person posted: “So inconsiderate how stupid these things are intrusive. Why would anyone get amusement from these.
“Causing disturbance everywhere. Should be banned.”
Another said: “Drone users need to pass some kind of test of competence before being let loose- so many have no consideration that their actions are frightening to animals.”
Another contributor said: “A few weeks ago we were up at Coire an t-Sneachda and there were quite a few drones.
“They were disturbing the Ptarmigan...we were trying to find some to photograph but the only ones we saw were flying to get away from the drones.”
One woman said: “Drones in professional hands can have their place but, not for just anyone and they disturb the peace especially for animals but also for humans too.”
One drone user stated: “I love to fly my drone, but always keep in mind to not disturb animals and even possible other people.
“I like it, but (wild) animals and a lot of people don't like them.”
