RECENTLY we reported on the newfound ability of ants to sniff out cancer (PD 31 Jan) - and today the wildlife wonder continues with revelations that squirrels can be taught to detect illicit drugs.
Police in southwestern China last week announced that they had "successfully trained" six Eurasian red squirrels to sniff out contraband, as part of a national initiative aiming to test the use of animals other than dogs in drug-busting operations.
The crack furry anti-narcotics squad was revealed by Yin Jin, a police dog handler in the city of Chongqing who told local media that the tree-dwelling rodents had done an excellent job because of their keen sense of smell.
He said squirrels are particularly suited to detecting illicit items concealed in packages because they are able to squeeze into compact spaces - an ability seen as vital amid an increase in contraband being allegedly sent via post.
Mr Yin said it may be some time before the squirrel squad is deployed on active duty, with further real-world drills expected to be conducted.
"Research like this requires innovativeness as well as the patience for a flower to bloom," he told the Hechuan Daily.
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