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Guard animals are often pictured as sharp-eared Dobermans ready to defend against intruders. However, not all protectors fit this mold. Discover 10 surprising creatures that have been enlisted for unusual security roles.
1. THE WHISKEY-PROTECTING GEESE
Between 1959 and 2012, the Ballantine's whisky distillery in Dumbarton, Scotland, relied on a flock of geese to safeguard their spirits. Hiram Walker, the owner, was convinced that trespassers would trigger the geese, causing a loud commotion and alerting locals. When the distillery changed hands, the new owners retired the remaining geese to a sanctuary in Glasgow, stating they were "no longer needed for security."
In China’s Xinjiang province, “police geese” are employed to alert both residents and law enforcement to any unusual activity with their loud cries.
2. THE WRATHFUL DUCKS
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A vineyard in South Africa’s Western Cape uses a flock of ducks to protect its grapes from pests. These ducks act as natural pest control, reducing the need for chemicals, and their droppings serve as fertilizer. To honor their contribution, the winery labels some of its products under the Runner Duck brand.
3. THE KING COBRA THAT GUARDED A ZOO
In 1978, Stockholm’s Skansen Zoo faced frequent burglaries. To address this, zookeepers let a king cobra roam freely across the zoo at night. Media were informed that the 14-foot snake’s venom could kill an intruder in 15 minutes. After the announcement, burglaries ceased.
4. THE BREWERY-GUARDING CATS
5. THE SHEEP-PROTECTING LLAMAS
Llamas have long been used by farmers to protect sheep from coyotes. A 2003 Iowa State University study found that half of the flocks guarded by llamas saw a complete end to attacks. Llamas, part of the camelid family, are naturally aggressive toward predators due to ancestral threats from dogs. They stand tall, cry out, and charge at coyotes, sometimes even killing them. They also safeguard poultry and cattle. However, farmers typically use one llama, as two may neglect the sheep to socialize with each other.
6. NAVY DOLPHINS AND SEA LIONS
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The U.S. Navy kept one of its most effective security measures under wraps for nearly 30 years: dolphins. These marine mammals, equipped with exceptional sonar abilities, can locate lost equipment, detect explosives, and warn handlers of intruders. The program also employs sea lions, trained to carry clamps in their mouths, which they can attach to objects or individuals for tracking purposes.
7. MR. TEETH, THE ALLIGATOR THAT GUARDED DRUGS
For drug dealers, protecting their illegal stash from rivals is crucial. A marijuana dealer in Castro Valley, California, used an alligator named Mr. Teeth to guard 34 pounds of inventory. Police discovered the reptile during a probation check. ("We often find guard dogs in grow houses, but alligators? That’s rare," said Alameda County sergeant JD Nelson to the Associated Press.) The owner faced charges for both drug possession and keeping an unlicensed exotic pet.
8. PEPE THE SECURITY SKUNK
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A radiator company in Fort Wayne, Indiana, discovered an unusual but effective security measure: Pepe, a skunk that roamed their warehouse at night. Manager Tim Kelley told the Associated Press in 1983 that Pepe’s presence alone was enough to scare off intruders, though he clarified that the skunk had been de-scented, which might have affected its intimidating reputation.
9. THE BEARS THAT GUARDED A MARIJUANA FARM
Marijuana cultivators often come up with creative ways to protect their crops. In 2010, a couple near Vancouver was arrested after police found over 2300 plants and around 14 black bears on their property. Authorities believed the couple used dog food to lure the bears, which are native to the area. However, the bears were not effective against human intruders—they remained asleep even as police raided the site, with one even resting on a patrol car. "They were calm and not aggressive," Sergeant Fred Mansveld told The Telegraph. "But it was clear they were accustomed to the drug operation."
10. THE WOLF ON WATCH
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In Kazakhstan, villagers have adopted an unconventional approach to security by using wolves as guard animals. According to the BBC in 2014, locals buy wolves to protect their properties. Nurseit Zhylkyshybay, one owner, mentioned he walks his wolf without issues from neighbors. However, a wolf expert warned that these animals are unpredictable and could pose a danger to their owners. For a safer alternative, consider using ducks instead.
