Marwell Zoo in Hampshire, England has teamed up with the University of Surrey to develop a bespoke AI nocturnal behaviour observation system.
The three-year project will use AI and machine learning to help monitor the health and behaviour of zoo animals overnight, allowing zookeepers to spot subtle signs of illness or distress.
The AI-powered camera platform will initially be tested in the enclosures for giraffes and red river hogs, with the team to develop and refine the system across different species.
AI nocturnal behaviour observation system
As above, its purpose is to provide early alerts and flag unusual behavioural patterns in animals, enabling staff to intervene sooner and potentially prevent minor health issues from exacerbating.
Kevin Wells, a professor of AI in human and veterinary healthcare at the University of Surrey, said the AI project will deliver "the first AI health and welfare monitoring system focused on zoo animals".
"Marwell Wildlife has a tremendous track record of putting animal welfare front and centre, and this project will help enhance that work," he added.
Marwell Zoo's new AI nocturnal behaviour observation system will help monitor the health and behaviour of red river hogs.
"It’s a great example of how academia and conservation organisations can come together to develop technologies that support conservation efforts."
Laura Read, chief executive of Marwell Wildlife, said the zoo has "always prided ourselves on pushing the boundaries of animal welfare standards that are achievable in a zoo setting".
"That is why we are very excited to be working with the University of Surrey on developing technology that could strengthen animal welfare further, giving us new insights into nocturnal behaviours and highlighting those extra details that can be difficult to spot with the human eye," she said.
Improving animal welfare in zoos
In addition to improving animal welfare, the AI technology could help zoos better understand how animals interact with their environments, including how lighting, heating or feeding times influence behaviour.
Marwell Zoo is also working on drone technology to monitor endangered species in the wild in partnership with the University of Southampton.
Images courtesy of Marwell Wildlife / Leo Collier-Bett
