Stirling University has been involved in a project in the rainforests of west central Africa which aims to tackle wildlife poaching.
Smart cameras on trails were tested during the pilot project in remote areas of Gabon to detect different animal species and humans.
By combining an AI model, ready-made camera traps and custom hardware with a satellite connection, it was possible to send instant information to rangers from remote locations.
It is the first time that such a camera system has been rigorously tested under the tough conditions of a rainforest - and it accurately identified elephants and humans.
University of Stirling post doctoral researcher Dr Robin Whytock said: “Real-time data from smart cameras and other sensors could revolutionise how we monitor and protect the world’s most threatened ecosystems.
“The advances made in this study show that real-time data could be used to make better decisions during time-critical situations.”
Trail cameras are regularly used in wildlife surveys to detect threats, but are often hampered in remote regions due to a lack of broadband connectivity.
AI-powered wildlife cameras aim to fix the issue by providing instant alerts without the need for WiFi, long-range radio or cellular coverage, helping better conserve, protect and restore ecosystems as a result.
During the pilot, five camera systems took more than 800 photos in 72 days; 217 photos of elephants were taken.
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The AI model achieved an accuracy of 82 per cent in recognising elephants. Rangers received an alert from the system within seven minutes on average.
The researchers point out that the smart cameras could help to detect poachers and prevent human-elephant conflicts that often take place in the African rainforest, among other places.
The smart camera trap they have developed can immediately label images and send a warning to rangers or a village.
Remote monitoring and offline analyses can be made reliably.
The system is also able to prevent conflict between humans and animals by deterring elephants from entering a village in search of food.
Founder of Dutch tech start-up Hack The Planet Tim van Deursen, also part in the scheme, said: “With this pilot we have demonstrated that our AI-powered camera technology works and can have a positive impact on nature conservation.
“Our solution does not depend on the installation of additional network infrastructure in the landscape and can be deployed in the field by non-experts anywhere in the world.”
Gabonese minister of Water, Forests, the Sea and Environment Lee White said: “Fewer of our eco-guards will die, and more poachers will be caught, if we can deploy this technology.”
