Remote control animals, are animals that are controlled remotely by humans. Some applications require electrodes to be implanted in the animal's nervous system and a receiver, usually carried on its back. The electrodes do not move the animal directly, as one would move a robot; instead, they are used to signal its desired direction or action, then stimulate the animal's reward centres if it complies. These are sometimes called
bio-robots or
robo-animals, are animals which are controlled by the use of radio signals. They can be considered to be
cyborgs as they combine electronic devices with an organic life form. Because of the surgery required, and the moral and ethical issues involved, there has been criticism aimed at the use of remote control animals, especially regarding
animal welfare and
animal rights. A similar, non-invasive, application has been reported which stimulates the brain with ultrasound to control the animal. Some applications (used primarily for dogs), use vibrations or sound to control the movements of the animals.
Several species of animals have been successfully controlled remotely. These include
moths,
beetles,
[1] cockroaches,
[2][3] rats,
[4] dogfish sharks,
[5] mice[6] and
pigeons.
[6]
Remote control animals can be directed and used as
working animals for
search and rescue operations or various other uses.
