Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the field of wildlife conservation by offering new ways to protect endangered animals and prevent poaching. With its ability to analyze existing data sets in real-time, AI technology provides invaluable insights and enhances the efficiency of wildlife management practices.
Traditionally, camera trapping has been a key method in understanding animal behavior, tracking movement patterns, and identifying potential conflict zones. By using camera traps, conservationists gather data that helps develop targeted strategies, such as community alerts and rapid response deployment, to prevent conflicts. The all-India tiger estimation effort, for example, relies on camera traps to distinguish tiger individuals through their unique stripes.
One notable AI system in use is TrailGuard AI, an advanced camera-alert system that detects wildlife and poachers, sending real-time images to authorities overseeing key wildlife areas. In a study published in the peer-reviewed wildlife journal BioScience, researchers demonstrated how TrailGuard AI ensures swift communication by transmitting notifications of tiger sightings to a smartphone app within 30 seconds of the camera being activated.
Compared to traditional camera traps, TrailGuard AI offers several advantages, including design, durability, long battery life, and connectivity from anywhere. It has proven to be a more reliable and efficient solution for wildlife conservationists and local communities. The system acts as a burglar alarm designed to protect sanctuaries, reserves, and village lands in buffer zones.
Dr. Himmat Singh Negi, senior advisor to Nightjar, emphasizes the potential of TrailGuard AI in promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife. Early alerts from the system can detect tigers and elephants in real-time, contributing to the global goal of rewilding endangered populations, preventing poaching, and illegal tree felling.
The resurgence of tiger and elephant populations in India has brought new challenges in mitigating conflicts and poaching. However, AI technology, like TrailGuard AI, can aid conservation efforts by monitoring wildlife corridors, detecting movements between reserves, and documenting the intensity of use.
The integration of AI in wildlife management represents a transformative shift that offers immense potential in protecting endangered species while ensuring the sustainable coexistence of wildlife and humans. As technology continues to advance, AI will undoubtedly play a crucial role in safeguarding our planet’s precious biodiversity.
The source of the article is from the blog mgz.com.tw