AI aids conservationists in saving red squirrels

A new AI tool called Squirrel Agent can distinguish between grey and red squirrels with 97% accuracy, making it a valuable tool for conservationists. It can even control access to squirrel feeders, ensuring the right squirrels get the right food. This technology, developed by Genysys Engine, is currently being tested in the UK with promising results.

Grey squirrels have caused a decline in red squirrel populations, especially in England and Wales. The tech aims to help preserve red squirrels by providing targeted support based on individual squirrel identification, focusing on unique features like whiskers.

The AI tool’s future potential lies in individual animal identification through whisker analysis. This could help track family lines and monitor populations more effectively. Other examples of AI in conservation include the World Wildlife Fund’s use of AI to locate surviving animals after bushfires in Australia.