Kerala researchers secure patent for AI tech to monitor wildlife near human settlements

Kochi: A new AI-powered system has been developed to detect the presence of wild animals near human settlements and issue alerts. This innovative technology, created by a team of college educators, has received a patent from the Central Government.

The researchers—A Binu, Dr S Saritha, Dr KG Preetha (from Rajagiri School of Engineering and Technology, Kochi), and Dr Ramesh Babu (from Government Engineering College, Palakkad)—collaborated to develop this system. The concept originated before the COVID-19 pandemic during a nature study camp at Vazhikkadavu, Idukki, jointly organized by the Forest Department and Mathrubhumi.

The system uses cameras and AI-based algorithms to monitor the movements of wild animals. It can identify if the same animal reappears and record how often it visits. This technology is expected to assist the Forest Department and local administrations in taking preventive measures to avoid potential dangers to the public.

Currently, in areas with frequent wildlife movement, forest rangers collect data from camera traps periodically. These images are analyzed manually by environmental scientists. The new system, however, uses a wireless network to transfer data, which is then analyzed and categorized by AI.

Researchers noted that with minor modifications, the system could be adapted for other purposes. It could also provide valuable data for wildlife conservation efforts by helping to map animal corridors and support preservation initiatives.