Work

An AI-Based Integrated Multi-Sensor System with Edge Computing for the Adaptive Management of Human–Wildlife Conflict

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Escalating Human–Wildlife Conflict (HWC), particularly involving protected large carnivores such as the wolf, poses a significant challenge in Europe. This problem, exacerbated by ecological pressure, necessitates the development of innovative, non-lethal, and effective prevention methods that overcome the limitations of current passive solutions, such as habituation. This article presents the design and implementation of a prototype for an autonomous, multi-sensory preventive system. Its three-layer architecture is based on a decentralized network of sensory-deterrent nodes that utilize Edge AI for real-time species detection and adaptive selection of deterrent stimuli. During field validation, the prototype’s biological efficacy as a proof-of-concept was confirmed in a crop protection scenario against the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). The system’s deployment led to a near-total elimination of damages. The paper also presents key technical performance metrics (e.g., response time, energy consumption) and the accuracy of the implemented AI detection model, verified using both field and historical data. The positive test results demonstrate that the developed platform provides an effective and flexible foundation for preventive systems. Its successful validation on a common herbivore species represents a crucial, measurable step toward the target implementation and further research on the system’s effectiveness in providing protection against large carnivores.

Source: Sensors

DOI: 10.3390/s25206415

Authors: Mirosław Hajder, Janusz Kolbusz, Mateusz Liput

Institution: University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow

Language: English

Topic: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137