Innovative tracking collars help researchers monitor south
Researchers in Queensland, Australia, are using thermal drones and solar-powered tracking collars to monitor and protect declining koala populations. This technology allows for real-time tracking and faster medical intervention for injured animals.
Why it matters
Innovative conservation technology is vital for protecting endangered species from habitat loss and health threats.
Researchers are using thermal drones and tracking collars to monitor koala populations in south-east Queensland.
The technology is helping to find and treat sick animals in Burbank, where a program is underway to combat declining koala numbers.
The program, which has been running for 18 months, has resulted in the birth of two joeys.
Link copied Share Share article Thermal drones and innovative tracking collars are a "game-changer" for researchers who are addressing declining koala populations across south-east Queensland.
Using the technology, they can detect multiple koalas in a day and respond sooner if the animal is sick or injured.
"We get up early in the morning when there's really good differential between the cool forest and the koalas' heat, and the thermal camera on the drone just glows if you happen to fly over a koala," University of Queensland researcher Dr Sean FitzGibbon said.
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