Australian researchers are launching a koala facial recognition study that aims to better monitor the marsupials behavior and ultimately aid in their conservation.
The team from Griffith University is attempting to use artificial intelligence (AI) to recognize individual furry mammals when they use wildlife road crossings in Queensland state.
Approximately 20 cameras will be placed at koala crossing locations in the Redland City Council area with 20 cameras by the end of July 2021.
These crossing locations are designed as underground pathways and bridges at busy roads near animal habitats to offer them a safer route away from cars.
But koalas often ignore them, and instead walk over the roadway, with many struck and killed by cars.
Date Time
Refurbished Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre opens
Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Youth Affairs The Honourable Meaghan Scanlon
The Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre has undergone a major refurbishment with the newly modernised facility now equipped with cutting-edge treatment and diagnostic equipment.
Minister for Environment and Science Meaghan Scanlon was on hand to welcome the first koalas into the new centre and to oversee their Chlamydia vaccinations, as part of an exciting trial to beat the devastating disease plaguing the koala population.
“The Queensland Government committed $830,000 to support the Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre in its role as a specialist rehabilitation centre supporting sick, injured and orphaned koalas and preparing them for release back to the wild,” Ms Scanlon said.