Ocean Park Hong Kong has started using artificial intelligence (AI) to track the behaviours of its giant pandas and golden monkeys, allowing for improved animal care and habitat design.
Information technology and animal research experts at Ocean Park Hong Kong have developed an innovative system that utilises machine learning to recognise the key anatomical features of different species and identify a spectrum of animal behaviours.
Machine learning-assisted animal monitoring started at the park in early 2025 with giant pandas An An and Ke Ke, including Ke Ke's activity level and habitat use.
AI-driven animal care at Ocean Park
So, for example, the advanced AI model provides insights on where the pandas spend the most time, which allows the park's team to better place enrichment items in order to stimulate the pandas' physical and mental health.
The system has since been expanded to Ocean Park's golden monkey family, and is meticulously tracking and analysing their movement patterns within their habitat, including the changes in distance between the baby and mother over time.
Thanks to the AI system, Ocean Park Hong Kong is building a comprehensive database for ongoing research and can develop highly targeted animal care strategies.
"Ocean Park Hong Kong is committed to science-based animal husbandry and health management," said Paulo Pong, chairman of the board of Ocean Park Corporation.
"By enhancing target detection algorithms and building customised AI models that go beyond whole object tasks to identify the body parts and pose of the park’s signature species with high conservation value, we have gained substantial insights into individual animal behavioural patterns.
"This has added value for the team to provide more personalised animal care and habitat design. Also, understanding species-specific behaviours and interactions with the environment is crucial for research and effective conservation."
AI systems for dolphin tracking
Looking ahead, Ocean Park Hong Kong is working to develop AI systems to analyse dolphins' movements in dynamic, multi-dimensional environments and integrate acoustic data.
Ocean Park Hong Kong has also been working with scientists to protect local horseshoe crabs with the help of unmanned aerial vehicles and AI.
Images courtesy of Ocean Park Hong Kong
