Lumen Wirltuti:Warltati 2025 - Flipbook - Page 8
“Orangutans, like humans, exhibit distinct facial features and
micro expressions that convey emotions such as curiosity, distress,
and relaxation,” she says.
“THE INTEGRATION OF AI AND
ROBOTICS INTO ANIMAL CARE
REPRESENTS A MAJOR LEAP
FORWARD IN WELFARE
ASSESSMENT.”
“Our AI model recognises individuals with high accuracy and
interprets facial expressions to estimate emotional states.”
A camera system was installed in the orangutan habitat of
Adelaide Zoo to monitor orangutan activities continuously. This
system applies state-of-the-art computer vision algorithms to detect
and track body movements, constructing skeletal models to classify
behaviours accurately.
challenging. The aerial view enables keepers to quickly assess
cheetahs’ locations, identify any potential injuries, and observe
social interactions from a distance without causing unnecessary
stress. This method improves safety, optimises feeding schedules,
and enhances overall welfare management for the animals.
“These innovative engineering solutions are already significantly
advancing our ability to monitor and enrich the lives of zoo-housed
animals, and show great promise for the future,” Mark Smith,
Conservation Manager at Zoos SA, says.
“The integration of AI and robotics into animal care represents
a major leap forward in welfare assessment. It enables more
responsive, individualised care and creates new opportunities for
naturalistic engagement that were previously unattainable. Working
with the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering has been
mutually rewarding, and a truly inspirational experience.”
Students from multiple disciplines are collaborating in the
research, gaining hands-on experience in AI, robotics and
conservation technology. They are actively involved in data
collection, model development, implementation and field testing,
allowing them to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Georgia Mason is one of those students working with
orangutans. She is a third year Computer Science student helping
research orangutan behaviour and facial expression recognition.
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