AI cameras could help improve zoo animals' welfare
Marwell Zoo in Hampshire will use an AI program developed by the University of Surrey to monitor nocturnal activity of giraffes and red river hogs, aiming to detect welfare issues earlier. The three-year project, starting in June, could expand to other zoos and veterinary applications if successful.
Marwell Zoo near Colden Common, Hampshire, will deploy an AI-powered system to track nighttime behavior of giraffes and red river hogs as part of a three-year initiative. Developed by the University of Surrey, the software will establish baseline activity patterns and flag anomalies to veterinary teams, potentially improving early detection of health problems. The project, launching in June, will also optimize habitat lighting, heating, and feeding schedules based on animal activity data. Laura Read, Marwell Zoo’s CEO, stated the system will enable quicker issue resolution and provide valuable insights for animal welfare. Prof. Kevin Wells, Surrey’s AI specialist, called it an exciting first foray into exotic animal monitoring. Scientists will refine the AI to recognize deviations from normal nocturnal behavior, alerting staff to potential welfare concerns. If successful, the technology could be adapted for broader zoo use and veterinary applications. Marwell Zoo hopes the project will enhance care standards and deepen public engagement with animal health monitoring.
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