And Now for Something Completely Different...

Being a spy is a tough job. Not only do you constantly run the risk of being exposed by your enemies or compromised by an error in judgment or other grievous mistake (heck, your identity might even be leaked by your own government), you must also be able to adjust to rapidly changing conditions and always be quick on your feet.

This then begs the question: why have you or a colleague do it when you can just send in a squirrel or two to get the job done for you? As silly as that may sound, that could be what just happened if a recent news report from Iran is to be believed. Fourteen squirrels were apparently taken into custody near the country's border on charges of carrying advanced "eavesdropping" devices. Yes, you heard that right. Squirrels. Detained. For carrying spying devices.

"Police in Iran are reported to have taken 14 squirrels into custody - because they are suspected of spying.

The rodents were found near the Iranian border allegedly equipped with eavesdropping devices, according to Sky News.

The reports have come from the official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

When asked to confirm the story, the national police chief said: "I have heard about it, but I do not have precise information."

The IRNA said that the squirrels were kitted out by foreign intelligence services - but were captured two weeks ago by police officers."

Said one Sky News source : "The story is nuts" (no pun intended, of course). As the article goes on to note, using animals to spy is not without precedent. Whether it be using pigeons to fly intelligence during World War II or using chickens as a "low-tech chemical detection system," we've long employed our furry and feathered friends on the frontlines of national security. And you thought the president didn't have a strategy for Iran...

photo by mandj98 via flickr