"AI Hunts Down Hedgehogs from Space, Starting with Bramble Scans"

Researchers Turn to AI and Satellite Imagery to Track Declining Hedgehog Populations A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge has developed an innovative approach to tracking European hedgehogs, whose populations have declined by 30-50% over the past decade. Rather than searching for the nocturnal creatures directly, researchers are using satellite imagery and AI models to identify their favorite hiding spots: bramble patches. According to Gabriel Mahler, the researcher behind this project, "We can't spot a hedgehog from space, but we might be able to find where they live by looking for brambles." By first identifying these bramble patches, the team hopes to map potential hedgehog habitats across the UK. This approach is made possible through the use of satellite imagery and AI models that can analyze large areas quickly and efficiently. The decline in European hedgehog populations has been a concern for conservationists and researchers alike. Hedgehogs are an important part of their ecosystems, serving as both predators and prey. According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), "Hedgehogs play a vital role in controlling insect and small mammal populations, which can help maintain healthy ecosystems." However, habitat loss and fragmentation have made it increasingly difficult to track these creatures. Mahler's AI model uses machine learning algorithms to identify bramble patches from satellite images. This approach allows researchers to cover large areas quickly and efficiently, reducing the costs associated with traditional tracking methods. The team has already begun testing this method in several regions across the UK, with promising results. The use of AI and satellite imagery is not a new concept in conservation research. However, its application to hedgehog tracking is novel and holds great potential for improving our understanding of these animals' habitats and behavior. According to Dr. Emma Burns, a wildlife expert at the University of Oxford, "This approach has the potential to revolutionize the way we track and study hedgehogs. By identifying their favorite hiding spots, we can gain valuable insights into their behavior and habitat preferences." The next step for Mahler's team is to refine their AI model and apply it to a larger scale. They hope to eventually use this technology to inform conservation efforts and help protect these declining populations. As Mahler notes, "Our goal is not only to track hedgehogs but also to understand the factors driving their decline and develop effective conservation strategies." Background European hedgehog populations have been declining at an alarming rate over the past decade. Habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as climate change, are thought to be contributing factors. The UK's hedgehog population has declined by 30-50% since 2000, according to a report by the People's Trust for Endangered Species. Relevant Quotes "We can't spot a hedgehog from space, but we might be able to find where they live by looking for brambles." - Gabriel Mahler "Hedgehogs play a vital role in controlling insect and small mammal populations, which can help maintain healthy ecosystems." - Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) "This approach has the potential to revolutionize the way we track and study hedgehogs. By identifying their favorite hiding spots, we can gain valuable insights into their behavior and habitat preferences." - Dr. Emma Burns Current Status The University of Cambridge team is currently refining their AI model and testing it in several regions across the UK. They hope to eventually use this technology to inform conservation efforts and help protect declining hedgehog populations. Next Steps Mahler's team plans to continue developing and refining their AI model, with the goal of applying it on a larger scale. They also hope to collaborate with conservation organizations and government agencies to develop effective conservation strategies for protecting European hedgehogs. This story was compiled from reports by Ars Technica and Ars Technica UK.