A potential breakthrough in crocodile detection technology has been given the green light to proceed with the first deployment to test its feasibility in northern Queensland.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) is collaborating with James Cook University (JCU) to develop a device to detect crocodiles.
In theory, the device can spot crocodiles swimming in the water by linking state-of-the-art cameras and the artificial intelligence (AI) technology trained to identify crocodiles.
Ready to test-drive this AI technology in real-world settings, the device is going to be deployed to see if and how it can be used to help keep Queenslanders safe from crocodiles.
A crocodile basking on the bank of Water Park Creek near Byfield National Park. PIC: Queensland DES
The detection system is mounted on a mobile camera platform, configured as a trailer, for easy transportation to different locations as the trial phase rolls out.
DETSI Senior Conservation Officer Daniel Guymer said JCU researchers analysed thousands of hours of footage supplied by DETSI to train an AI technology that can differentiate between crocodiles and other floating objects in the water.
“The aim is to create a reliable detection system that could be deployed on fixed or mobile infrastructure in high recreation-use areas,” Mr Guymer said. “This is a significant step forward as we continue looking at innovative ways to improve public safety in areas where crocodiles also live.
He said that, if successful, the technology could revolutionise how crocodiles are monitored, providing real-time data to help in the effective and efficient management of crocodiles.
The project lead, Senior Lecturer and Co-Deputy Head of JCU’s newly established Centre for AI and Data Science Innovation, Dr Tao (Kevin) Huang said baseline tests had demonstrated the AI technology can detect crocodiles.
“This is a huge benefit for community safety, and we now need to check that it can detect crocodiles in the water in real time,” Dr Huang said. “If the program is successful, it could lead to the technology being used at public locations such as boat ramps or in marinas … our aim is to detect crocodiles, while also considering future extensions of the AI technology to estimate their size, which could assist wildlife rangers in investigating sightings.”
The partnership will assess the feasibility of the detection system, with researchers optimistic about its potential to deliver practical solutions for crocodile management.
The new Queensland Crocodile Management Plan prioritises public safety while also seeking to conserve crocodiles in their natural habitat.
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