Thermal Imaging for Feral Animal Control

Seeing What Others Can’t—Even in Complete Darkness

At Hunter Feral Control, we utilise thermal imaging scopes as part of our advanced ground shooting operations to detect and control feral pests at night. This cutting-edge technology allows us to see heat signatures, giving us the ability to locate and monitor animals that would otherwise be hidden by darkness, terrain, or vegetation.

When used by a trained and responsible operator, thermal scopes are an exceptionally effective tool—but they are not without limitations and risks. Proper use requires extensive experience and discipline, especially in ensuring correct target identification before any shot is taken.

How Thermal Imaging Works

Thermal scopes detect infrared radiation (heat) emitted by all animals, regardless of lighting conditions. The scope converts this radiation into a visible image, allowing operators to:

  • Detect animals from a distance, even in total darkness

  • Identify movement in bushland, paddocks, or around infrastructure

  • Monitor animal behaviour and numbers without disturbing the environment

  • Take accurate shots when supported by proper equipment and technique

Benefits in Ground Shooting Operations

Thermal imaging enhances our capabilities by enabling:

  • Night-time operations when many feral species are most active

  • Minimal disturbance to livestock, wildlife, and neighbours

  • Targeting in difficult terrain where visual line-of-sight is limited

  • Rapid detection and follow-up, increasing the effectiveness of ground shooting

Used with suppressed firearms, thermal technology allows us to remove problem animals quietly, humanely, and often without alerting nearby pests.

Limitations and Considerations

While thermal imaging is powerful, it is not a substitute for proper fieldcraft or experience. Limitations include:

  • Lack of detail – Thermal shows heat, not visual features. Animals often appear as glowing shapes, which makes positive species identification difficult without context.

  • False positives – Heat signatures can be produced by livestock, pets, or even warm rocks and machinery.

  • Reduced clarity in hot or humid conditions – High ambient temperatures can affect detection range and image quality.

  • No colour or markings – Thermal imaging cannot show fur colour, ear tags, collars, or species-specific markings. That means you cannot always distinguish a wild dog from a working dog without backup methods.

Because of these challenges, accurate identification relies on:

  • Knowledge of the property and its animals

  • Behavioural cues (e.g. movement patterns, body language)

  • Contextual awareness (e.g. known pest activity, trail camera footage)

  • Operator skill and discipline to not take a shot unless identification is confirmed

Operator Skill Is Critical

Thermal scopes are not "point-and-shoot" tools—they require a specific skill set, judgement, and experience to use safely and effectively. At Hunter Feral Control, we ensure:

  • All operators are fully trained in thermal use

  • We prioritise safety, positive identification, and humane outcomes

  • No shot is taken unless the target is clearly understood and appropriate

  • We combine thermal with pre-surveillance, local knowledge, and property owner consultation for added safety

Trust the Professionals

Thermal technology in the wrong hands can be dangerous. At Hunter Feral Control, we combine the latest tools with years of field experience to ensure every shot taken is informed, legal, and responsible.

Need Expert Night Control of Feral Pests?

If feral animals are active after dark and hard to locate by day, thermal-assisted ground shooting may be the right solution. Our team can assess your situation and recommend a safe, effective plan of action.

Contact Hunter Feral Control today to learn more about our thermal imaging capabilities and how we can help you regain control of your property.