As more farmers on both sides of the Tasman are embracing drone technology as a tool to efficiently monitor stock, research has examined the effect on sheep.
So called barking drones can move stock and herd sheep and also enable farmers to check on lambing without disturbing ewes.
A University of New South Wales study has looked into whether sky shepherding is better for barnyard animals than some of the more traditional farming methods.
One of the lead researchers, Kate Yaxley has been observing the impact on welfare of farm animals.
