At West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW), keeping the airfield safe is a top priority— and two of our most dedicated team members are covered in fur! Meet Hercules and Ned, the hardworking canines behind CRW’s Wildlife Management Program.
Hercules, an 8-year-old Border Collie, has spent years keeping our runways safe by using his natural herding instincts to humanely deter birds and wildlife from active airspace. In 2024, he was joined by Ned, a 3-year-old Border Collie who is full of energy and already making a big impact on the airfield.
Together with their handler, Hercules and Ned work around the clock to help mitigate wildlife threats and keep both passengers and pilots safe. The team works closely with CRW’s air traffic control tower to respond quickly when wildlife is spotted on or near the airfield—ensuring safe skies for every flight.
But these pups do more than just patrol. Feeling nervous about flying? You just might run into Hercules or Ned in the terminal, where they also serve as comfort animals. They love meeting travelers during impromptu meet-and-greets, community events, and school tours. Their friendly personalities and wagging tails bring smiles to faces of all ages!
In fact, he’s now the star of his very own children’s book, The Adventures with Hercules: A New Friend written by Milena E. Velez and illustrated by Jim Melton. This heartwarming story is perfect for young readers and teaches the importance of airport safety in a fun and engaging way.
📘 Order your copy on Amazon here
Joining the team in 2024 is Ned, a three-year-old Border Collie who’s already learning the ropes. With boundless energy and a growing skill set, Ned is following in Hercules’ paw prints to keep CRW’s airfield wildlife-free and safe for aircraft operations.
Both Hercules and Ned are part of our commitment to innovative, humane wildlife management—and they’ve quickly become cherished members of the CRW family.
Want more behind-the-scenes looks at their adventures? Follow them on Instagram:
📸 @crwhercules
Stay tuned for more updates from the CRW Wildlife Canine Program—where safety meets tail wagging.