A municipality in southern Turkey has launched an experimental disaster-preparedness programme that blends animal training, technology, and academic research to improve search and rescue response in earthquake zones.
The initiative, known as the “Hero Rats” project, is being piloted in the Mediterranean province of Antalya by Muratpasa Municipality in partnership with APOPO, the GEA Search and Rescue Association, and Ankara University.
The ‘Hero Rats’
At the centre of the project are six African giant pouched rats – Jo, Caruso, Wagner, Billy, Kiriya and Daniel – trained to assist rescue teams by detecting human scent beneath collapsed structures.
Their small size, agility, and strong sense of smell allow them to move through narrow gaps in debris that are often inaccessible to humans or search dogs.
Each rat is fitted with a lightweight backpack equipped with a camera, GPS tracking, and a two-way communication system.
The setup enables teams to monitor the animals’ movements in real time, receive video footage from inside rubble, and identify locations where signs of life may be present.
When a rat detects human scent, it activates a trigger that alerts teams outside.
Innovation could open doors
Speaking at the project’s inauguration, Muratpasa Mayor Umit Uysal emphasised the importance of innovative preparation.
“We hope disasters never happen and that these efforts are never needed,” said Uysal.
“But Turkey’s disaster reality makes such preparations unavoidable.”
“Another important aspect of this project is that it instils a spirit of innovation and broadens people’s horizons.”
Academic researchers see broader applications beyond emergency response.
Associate Professor Engin Yenice, vice dean of Ankara University’s Faculty of Agriculture, said the project could contribute to setting new standards beyond disaster preparedness.
“The data we obtain will open new doors and help set standards,” he said.
Programme leader Dr Danielle Giongrosso highlighted the rats’ operational role.
“After receiving a command, they can return to the starting point,” she said.
“They will also help us analyse the interior of collapsed structures.”
Officials stressed the rats are intended to complement, not replace, existing rescue tools, as Turkey continues to explore innovative approaches to disaster readiness.
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Adam Peaker 
Ian Trinidad