Sniffer Dogs on a Mission to Sniff Out Japanese Knotweed Along the M25
National Highways has turned to an unlikely ally in its war against the invasive Japanese Knotweed along the M25 motorway. Meet the sniff squad: Fenix the Dutch Shepherd and two Spaniels, Nica and Nettle. These canine crusaders are specially trained to sniff out the plant’s underground roots, bulbs, and shoots. Removing these stops the weed in its tracks before it can spread.
Why Japanese Knotweed Is a Serious Problem
Japanese Knotweed is a plant nightmare. It can shoot up over 2.1 metres high and smother everything else around it. Worse, it can wreck buildings and infrastructure. It’s so dangerous that letting it spread is a crime under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Early detection is key — and that’s where the dogs come in.
Sniffer Dogs Show Off Their Incredible Nose
Kat Janczur, owner and handler at Canine Detection Solutions, sent her talented team on a tight schedule. Each pooch could only work 30 minutes before needing a break to keep their noses sharp. Kat said, “The dogs have got the most amazing sense of smell, and they can pick up the scent that Japanese knotweed rhizome gives off into the soil. They’re amazing animals and a great tool in efforts to prevent the spread of these invasive plants on and around the site.”
On day two, the team hit the A3 northbound verge and Seven Hills Road. The dogs froze up the moment they sniffed Japanese Knotweed, alerting Kat to the exact location. This quick warning let National Highways strike fast and clear out the menace.
A Unique, Paws-On Approach to Conservation
Japanese Knotweed can lurk underground for up to 20 years without a sign above ground. Thanks to the dogs, no patch goes unchecked, no matter how hidden. Pippa Jordan of National Highways explained their smart strategy: “Before we start, we create a map of the area showing nearby plants so we can tackle invasive species right from the start. In this case, we decided to put our paws on the pavement and take a unique approach. These sniffer dogs are not just adorable—they’re incredibly skilled at finding unwanted plants that can be hard to spot.”
These four-legged detectives are proving vital in protecting the environment and stopping the spread of invasive weeds. With their help, National Highways is keeping Britain’s roadsides safe and green.
