Drama as farmers use llamas as burglar alarmers

FARMERS are turning to unusual security measures such as honking geese and spitting llamas to combat a countryside crimewave, insurers say.

Others have turned to medieval methods such as earth banks, stockade fences and dry ditches to keep thieves at bay.

NFU Mutual, which provides insurance for nearly three-quarters of Britain’s farms, said there had been a 13 per cent rise in thefts last year. It said it was the biggest increase in the rate of rural crime since 2010 and cost just under £45million last year.

Geese, which have strong territorial instincts and honk as they attack intruders, were first used as guards in ancient Rome, warning of raids by Gauls.

Now, with their ability to spot those they recognise as unusual, they are alerting farmers to possible thefts by making loud noises when they spy strangers.

Llamas are also being employed as guards because they are well known for chasing off intruders. They spit to show dominance and to ward off threats from predators, as well as kicking and charging when provoked.

Tim Price of NFU Mutual said farmers were also using high-tech options to combat thieves, such as tracking devices and immobilisers on vehicles, CCTV cameras, dashcams, motion sensors, infra- red surveillance and even DNA markers to protect sheep from rustlers.

The top items targeted by raiders included all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and quad bikes, followed by tools, machinery, 4x4 vehicles, livestock, garden gear, oil and diesel, trailers and horse boxes, tractors and bicycles.