When it comes to prison security, we often think of high walls, barbed wire fences, and security guards. But what if I told you that a Brazilian prison uses a rather unconventional security measure – geese? Yes, you heard it right. In an innovative approach to prevent inmates from escaping, this unique prison has enlisted the help of geese as their instinctively protective “agents”. Intrigued? Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating strategy that has gained attention worldwide.
Since December 20, a bunch of geese have been strutting around Sao Pedro de Alcantara prison in Brazil. They’re taking over from the previous guard dogs to make sure no inmates try to escape. Those geese mean business!
A prison in Brazil stepped up its security by replacing guard dogs with something even scarier: geese!
In between pond breaks, these honking birds, known as “geese agents,” are on a serious mission, carefully patrolling the space between the prison’s inner fence and outer wall.
Geese are now the guards at Sao Pedro de Alcantara prison in Brazil! They have taken over from the dogs and are patrolling the premises. Can you believe it? These feathered friends are now in charge of security. Who would have thought?
Brazilian 'geese agents' honk in case of prison break https://t.co/Rx5W0vwrgJ
— Marilyn on Bsky: mlauriat 🇨🇦 #RoeVember2024 (@mlauriat) December 20, 2023
Image credits: Global News
Reuters reported that staff have admitted that waterfowl species of bird are excellent guard animals, even better than dogs. The prison director, Marcos Roberto de Souza, jokingly stated that they have electronic and in-person surveillance, but most importantly, the surveillance of the geese. Piu-Piu, the goose in charge, leads the “gaggle” in overseeing the premises. And when officers call his name, Piu-Piu hilariously responds with a honk.
These geese agents have proven to be an unexpected but highly effective addition to the prison’s security system. Unlike guard dogs, which can sometimes be unpredictable or easily bribed with treats, geese possess a natural instinct to protect their territory and alert others of potential threats. Their honking serves as a warning sign, signaling both inmates and guards that something is amiss.
The decision to replace guard dogs with geese was made after considering the unique advantages that geese bring to the table. Geese are known for their territorial nature, honking loudly to alert others of potential dangers. This instinct makes them highly effective in deterring potential escape attempts by inmates.
The presence of geese also has a psychological impact on the inmates. The fear and intimidation associated with guard dogs are now replaced with the watch ful eyes and honking of the geese. This creates a sense of unease among the inmates, making them think twice before attempting to escape.
Moreover, geese are much cheaper to maintain than guard dogs. They require minimal training and can thrive on natural food sources found in the prison grounds, such as grass and insects. This makes them a cost-effective solution for enhancing prison security.
Geese are more affordable to care for than guard dogs. They need little training and can survive on natural food sources like grass and insects found in prisons. This makes them a cost-effective option for improving prison security.
Image credits: Global News
Marcos apparently thinks that taking care of geese is cheaper than owning dogs, and he believes that the peaceful prison is a great place for his geese. He has this to say: “It’s so quiet here, even during the day! And at night, it’s even quieter… perfect for geese security!”
According to HelloHomestead, geese have been protecting stuff for ages because they’re just really good at it.
The prison’s director stated that the space is suitable for ensuring the safety of the geese.
Image credits: Global News
According to the website, not only do honking geese make fantastic alarm clocks, but they are also natural-born protectors who are more suitable for guarding than humans or even dogs.
Why, you may ask? Well, it turns out that these fabulous feathered creatures have superior vision, thanks to their ability to see ultraviolet light. And let me tell you, their long-distance vision is off the charts!
They can spot movement way before us regular folks even have a clue. Genius geese, I tell ya!
Geese can detect movement much earlier than we can. They are incredibly smart animals.
Image credits: Global News
Check out this hilarious news segment featuring a group of geese acting as agents!
The outlet claims that unlike other birds, geese actually react in a way that’s helpful to people. How?
Well, they make a lot of noise! And not just any noise, but loud and aggressive honking. Talk about the perfect guard birds! Oh, and did I mention that geese are super territorial?
They know where their home is and they will defend it like nobody’s business, especially during mating and hatching season. Those geese mean business!