Commonly deployed monitoring techniques (e.g. aerial surveys, camera traps), can be labour intensive, require substantial investment in equipment and personnel, carry safety risks, and rely on indices rather than enumeration. The application of thermal sensors to ecological and wildlife monitoring purposes is a rapidly growing area of investigation.
Thermal sensors have the potential to address common issues associated with traditional survey techniques such as visual acuity and observer fatigue, especially when attempting to detect cryptic targets or surveying large areas. However, recorded observations (thermal or otherwise) still generate hours of footage that requires time consuming and laborious analysis.
Automated computer software systems for detecting and identifying target objects from thermal imagery have the potential to quickly and accurately analyse large imagery datasets. This project will develop an automated thermal imagery analysis models that incorporate artificial intelligence and deep machine learning to further enhance low-cost and time-efficient processing. This work will provide a central analysis platform that is compatible to low, medium and high resolution thermal imagery, and equally accessible to all stakeholders and end-users.
In progress
Dr Peter Adams has >16 years research experience focusing on applied ecology, with the aim of improving our understanding of the physiology, behaviour and impact of vertebrate pests to inform and improve current conservation and pest management strategies. Peter has participated in a range of scientific research on vertebrate pests including pigs, foxes, cats, and deer. In particular, Peter has focused on the impacts of feral pigs, investigating the abundance and digging activities of feral pigs on different landscapes, as well as methods for controlling and managing these impacts. More recently, he has been involved in research to evaluate the efficacy of thermal sensors to detect and monitor feral pigs and other vertebrate pests. Peter is currently a Development Officer with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and works to facilitate coordinated and improved vertebrate pest management by community-led groups. This involves the adoption of ‘best practice’ management and innovative technologies to improve control efficiency.
Qualifications:
BSc in Biotechnology (Honours 1st Class)
PhD Veterinary Parasitology
The project receives funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
February 2021 update:
A proof-of-concept AI software model for detecting multiple species has been achieved. This model has been trained to detect and identify pigs, rabbits and deer from thermal imagery. Further exposure to thermal imagery of these species is integral to training the AI. End user consultations have revealed a need for this software to be deployed in real time during pest animal surveys