Researchers at the University of Southampton are working on a unique app to help identify donkeys at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. This innovative tool uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze photos of the animals, making it easier to tell them apart.
Gordon Pattison, a trustee of the sanctuary, shared that donkeys often lack distinct features, making identification tricky. In the past, they tried using collars for this purpose but found them uncomfortable and unsafe for the animals. The new app aims not only to identify each donkey but also to monitor their health. It will alert staff if it detects unusual behavior, which can help catch health issues early.
AI is known for its pattern-matching abilities, which are used in various fields. For example, facial recognition technology is becoming more common in police work, and similar tools are being employed to find lost pets.
According to a recent study by the American Journal of Veterinary Research, animal monitoring technologies are on the rise, showing a 20% increase in adoption over the past three years. As technology leaps forward, tools like this can greatly improve animal care.
This donkey identification app is set to launch by the end of the year, showing promise in how we manage and look after animals.
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