Abstract: An animal monitoring and deterrent device includes a lure body, one or more sensors, an animal deterrent mechanism, and a controller. The lure body is configured to attract the attention of a pest animal. The sensors are configured to detect movement of the device or presence of the pest animal proximal to the device. The animal deterrent mechanism includes a source of animal deterrent and an animal deterrent delivery system. The animal deterrent delivery system is fluidly connected to the source of animal deterrent and is configured to disperse the animal deterrent upon activation of the animal deterrent delivery system. The controller is communicatively connected to the one or more sensors and the animal deterrent mechanism and analyzes data generated by the sensors to initiate release of the animal deterrent. An associate method to deter a pest animal from attacking endangered or threatened species utilizing the device is also provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for maintaining operation of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in an obstructive environment. In one example, the UAV may include a plurality of propellers, a plurality of guards affixed to the plurality of propellers, and a cage positioned adjacent to the plurality of propellers, the cage constructed from a plurality of detachably joined beams, and the cage detachably coupled to each of the plurality of guards. In some examples, the cage may be fabricated from fiberglass or carbon fiber. In additional or alternative examples, the cage may not extend underneath the UAV during operation thereof. In this way, the cage may maintain operation of the UAV in the obstructive environment by preventing obstructing objects in the obstructive environment from damaging components thereof while providing a substantially lightweight and unobtrusive construction which may not significantly degrade a performance of the UAV.