UK Deploys Sniffer Dogs to Combat Tree Diseases and Forest Pests

Sniffer dogs are now being used in the UK to identify harmful tree diseases. A cocker spaniel-labrador cross named Ivor has made history by successfully detecting the tree pathogen Phytophthora ramorum for the first time in the country.

Ivor, a six-year-old spanador, has an impressive 89% detection rate on his first try. This pathogen is dangerous for UK forests. It spreads through rain and can kill various trees and shrubs, leading to large-scale tree removal across the country.

Dr. Heather Dun from Forest Research praised the results, highlighting Ivor’s role in the fight against tree pests and diseases. She emphasized the importance of biosecurity and noted that detection dogs like Ivor could play a crucial part in protecting trees.

To train Ivor, researchers focused on scent recognition. He learned to detect Phytophthora ramorum in soil, plant material, and even sterile distilled water. Ivor also learned to differentiate this pathogen from other similar species.

Forest Research is now considering using detection dogs to find other pests and diseases, including the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle.

Prof. Nicola Spence, the UK’s chief plant health officer, called this research groundbreaking. She stated that it will contribute to the UK’s plant biosecurity strategy, helping to tackle pests and diseases effectively.