The endangered red squirrel population of the UK is getting some unexpected help from artificial intelligence technology. Enter the Squirrel Agent AI, which is now being deployed to monitor and protect these vulnerable creatures from the competition of their larger, non-native counterparts—the gray squirrels.
This innovative AI, developed by Genysys Engine, is making waves with its remarkable ability to differentiate between red and gray squirrels using advanced image recognition software. Emma Mcclenaghan, the chief executive of Genysys Engine, explained how the Squirrel Agent works: "It can distinguish various species by analyzing specific features, such as their chins, ears, and tails." Remarkably, it achieves this with 97% accuracy. This level of precision is invaluable considering the drastic decline of red squirrels, which have plummeted from around 3.5 million to just several hundred thousand.
Introduced to the UK by the Victorians during the 1870s, gray squirrels have since thrived, outcompeting the native reds for food and space. They also carry the fatal squirrelpox virus, which doesn't affect them but can devastate red squirrel populations. The gray squirrel's ability to dominate was underscored by recent estimates showing their numbers hover around 2.7 million, compared to the creaking few hundreds of thousands of red squirrels.
Utilizing AI technology to turn the tide for the reds is not just about identifying squirrel species; it encompasses proactive measures too. Whenever the Squirrel Agent detects gray squirrels, it can send push notifications to conservationists, allowing them to set traps or deploy contraceptive methods to control the gray population. Conversely, when it spots a red squirrel, the AI can trigger automatic feeders and even deliver medicine to keep them healthy.
Five organizations, including Bangor University, the Scottish Wildlife Trust, and Ulster Wildlife, are currently testing the system across various locations. The initiative serves not only to improve red squirrel numbers but also to contribute to broader conservation efforts involving various wildlife.
Interestingly, the roots of the Squirrel Agent go back to the personal life of its creator. Mcclenaghan revealed, "The project started out as something meant for our pet border collie. He just loves watching squirrels like all dogs, and we wanted to provide him with entertainment. Initially, we were building it just for ourselves." This pet project has transformed dramatically, contributing significantly to wildlife conservation instead of merely serving as entertainment for one energetic dog.
While the Squirrel Agent conquers the present challenges of distinguishing species, the future holds even more potential. Soon, the AI will undergo enhancements to identify individual squirrels by analyzing their unique whiskers—imagine being able to tell Sally the squirrel apart from her father, Ben! Mcclenaghan expressed excitement about this next step, saying, "Whiskers can serve as individual fingerprints for squirrels. This will add layers to our conservation data, enabling us to trace movements and lineage, thereby enriching our research and strategies."
With numbers dwindling and threats like disease and competition from gray squirrels on the rise, the Squirrel Agent's deployment couldn't come at a more pivotal time. Conservationists are hopeful this AI will provide the tools necessary to not only safeguard these iconic native animals but also facilitate the restoration of red squirrel numbers across the United Kingdom.
The integration of AI technology showcases how we can innovate for conservation efforts by applying modern technology solutions to age-old environmental issues. By using machine learning, the Squirrel Agent offers new paths for conservators, making research easier and giving hope to those determined to protect endangered species.
