SBD Fly Dog
Wildlife mitigation at San Bernardino International Airport
Meet Norton - SBD Airport's Very Own Wildlife Patrol Dog
Basking in the sun, Norton’s wearing the pride of a job well done.
Have you ever wondered how birds and animals stay safely away from an airport runway? Meet Norton, our specially trained wildlife dog! Norton’s job is to help make the SBD runway safer for planes by encouraging birds and animals to stay out of the way.
Norton is always dressed for the job. He wears boots, goggles, and a vest while he’s out on patrol. Born in Texas on April 20, 2022, Norton has big brown eyes, a black and white coat, and a friendly, eager personality. He is loyal and brave and loves his team at SBD—they can always tell when Norton is ready to work because his tail straightens out, and he gets really focused!
Eyes on the skies, paws on the ground – Norton’s always ready for the next mission,
Behind every hard-working dog is a handler who knows that love is the greatest reward.
Norton works Wednesday through Sunday each week, running about 2 miles along the runway every morning to help clear the area of birds like crows and hawks, and even butterflies and dragonflies! He loves to chase anything that flies and is always excited to do his job. After a hard day’s work, he gets to relax and spend time with his favorite SBD handlers, Richie, David, and Robert, and all the other airport staff who love him.
When Norton is off duty, he’s all about tail wags and smiles. You might even see him in the terminal, bringing joy to everyone around. Norton is a big part of the SBD family, and we are so lucky to have him.
Learn More About Norton
- Q: What kind of dog is Norton?
- A: Norton is a male black & white Border Collie
- Q: How old is Norton?
- A: Norton was born on April 20, 2022 (2 years old)
- Q: How did Norton get his name?
A: Norton was named after Captain Leland F. Norton, namesake of San Bernardino’s Norton Air Force Base. Captain Norton was born in San Bernardino and died in World War II on his 16th combat mission. Struck by enemy fire over France, he courageously remained with his A-20 Havoc until his crew of three had bailed out. By then, it was too late to save himself. The highest Air Force award, the Distinguished Flying Cross, was awarded to Norton after his death, and the San Bernardino Air Force Base was renamed the Norton Air Force Base in his honor. That Air Force Base is now the San Bernardino International Airport.
- Q: How much does Norton weigh?
- A: 50 lbs.
- Q: What are his favorite activities?
- A: Running the runway and visiting people in the terminal
- Q: Is Norton afraid of anything?
- A: Yes, snakes!
Play with Norton!
Download the coloring sheet or stop by the airport and pick one up! Color and upload a picture to one of our social channels, and we will mail you a Norton sticker. Or better yet, color in flight and snap a photo!
