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Drones for Wildlife Conservation
Scientists utilize advanced drone technology with AI to monitor animals without disturbing them, aiding conservation efforts globally.
Hindi
Germany
TechnologyArtificial IntelligenceConservationWildlifeMonitoring
Marvel WildlifeUniversity Of SouthamptonGrezvy's Zebra TrustKenya Wildlife Service
Professor Philip Riordan
- What is the long-term goal of this project?
- The project aims to create an accessible drone platform for conservationists worldwide. The data collected will aid in the protection of endangered species by providing valuable information about population size, health, and behavior.
- How do the drones identify individual animals?
- The drones utilize artificial intelligence to identify animals, analyzing unique features like zebra stripes or the shadows cast by animals with antlers. This allows for the tracking and monitoring of individual animals and their health.
- Which organizations are involved in this initiative?
- Marvel Wildlife and the University of Southampton are collaborating on this project, which seeks to improve wildlife conservation efforts through technological innovation. The project is expected to benefit conservation efforts globally.
- What is the primary function of the newly developed drones?
- Scientists have developed drones that can monitor animals from a distance without disturbing them, using high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging to gather data. This technology allows for the identification of individual animals, even from a significant height.
- Where have the drones been tested so far, and what were the results?
- Initial testing of the drones occurred at a zoo in Hampshire, UK, where they successfully captured images detailed enough to see veins in a zebra's ear from 120 meters away. Further trials will take place in Kazakhstan and Kenya.