The monitoring and preservation of tigers pose a crucial and long-lasting problem for both environmentalists and conservationists
(Sarkar et al., 2021). Technological advancements have greatly impacted wildlife conservation efforts, with drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), emerging as a particularly valuable tool for conservationists.
(Ancin-Murguzur et al., 2020). Machine learning utilizes the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze complex patterns, generate forecasts and automate decision-making procedures
(Aguilar-Lazcano et al., 2023).
This paper explores the convergence of machine learning and drone technology in tiger tracking. It discusses the significance of tiger tracking, the role of drones in conservation and the transformative capabilities of machine learning in wildlife monitoring. The paper highlights the relevance of AI-powered drone technology in ensuring the survival of tigers and their ecosystems. The experimental data is acquired using YOLOv8. The dataset is obtained from the Kaggle database. The number of individual animals that can be observed by humans is restricted due to their physical and cognitive limitations (
Browning, 2022). A thorough approach to tiger monitoring in difficult environments is ensured by integrating data from various sources, such as ground sensors and local knowledge. This enables researchers to study tigers in their own environments while minimizing any disruption
(Kamran et al., 2021). Furthermore, the unobtrusive characteristic of drones minimizes anxiety in tigers and guarantees the preservation of their innate habits without disturbance
(Li et al., 2023). This tackles a prevalent issue linked to conventional land-based tracking techniques. Drones are widely recognized for their capacity to rapidly traverse extensive regions, rendering them very efficient and economical for gathering data
(Hodge et al., 2021).
Literature review
Drones have become essential instruments in the field of tiger conservation, allowing conservationists to view and track the activities of these elusive top predators in ways that were previously difficult or invasive (
Hossain, 2022;
Choi et al., 2023; Min et al., 2024). Artificial intelligence (AI) has proven useful in a variety of fields besides the cultivation of legume crops, such as big data analysis and animal research. AI algorithms are being used more and more to handle enormous volumes of data effectively, providing insights and forecasts that help decision-makers across a range of industries. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) methods are being used in animal research to investigate behavior patterns, genetic variables and health outcomes, among other topics, advancing our knowledge of and efforts to improve animal welfare
(Na et al., 2024; Kim and Kim, 2023;
Porwal et al., 2024; Wasik and Pattinson 2024). Quadcopters and hexacopters offer a unique combination of stability and agility that makes them ideal for shooting close-up photos and movies over water or in densely forested areas since they can take off and land vertically. These drones’ observation time varies based on factors including battery capacity and flying mission conditions
(Hildmann et al., 2019; Wilson et al., 2022). In a single flight, hexacopters and quadcopters may often record observation times of 20 to 30 minutes. Table 1 presents the advantages and disadvantages of quadcopters/hexacopters compared to traditional methods.
Machine learning and its applications
Machine learning is widely used in various fields, such as healthcare, finance and notably, animal tracking (
Directions 2023). Some techniques that have been developed using machine and deep learning are mentioned in Table 2 for wildlife conservation.
The integration of machine learning with drone technology
Machine learning algorithms analyze this data, enabling instantaneous decision-making and automation. Machine learning enabling the recognition of tigers in photographs taken by drones and offers understanding of their actions
(Alrayes et al., 2022; Cho, 2024;
Maltare, 2023). The methods employed for the collection of data are:
Cameras
They provide crucial visual data for the purpose of monitoring
(Tuia et al., 2022). High-quality cameras provide intricate photos and films, facilitating the identification of individual tigers through distinctive characteristics
(Shi et al., 2022). Also, thermal imaging cameras which are capable of detecting variations in temperature, rendering them highly effective for following nocturnal activities and detecting tigers in settings with little illumination
(Butcher et al., 2021).
Sensors
Various types of sensors are employed to gather diverse sets of information, enhancing the understanding of tiger behavior, movements and ecological interactions
(Ram et al., 2023). Similarly, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology produces intricate 3D maps of the landscape, which can assist in evaluating habitats and delineating tiger territory
(Shanley et al., 2021). The LiDAR-based habitat model had the lowest classification accuracy (OOB = 5.8%, k = 0.77). Multispectral and Hyperspectral Sensors have the ability to gather data that extends beyond the range of wavelengths visible to the human eye, thereby uncovering specific information about the well-being of vegetation and the surrounding environmental circumstances (
Adão et al., 2017).
Satellite imagery
Satellite imagery offers a bird’s-eye view of tiger habitats and can be used to assess changes in land cover and habitat fragmentation
(Ahmad et al., 2023). The accuracy evaluation revealed a Kappa value of 0.87 and an overall classification accuracy of 88.5%.
Data Pre-processing and feature extraction
There are a number of machine learning techniques and algorithms that are frequently used in the field of wildlife monitoring, with a specific focus on tigers:
i). Supervised learning algorithms
Support Vector Machines (SVM)
SVM are commonly employed for the purpose of species classification. It operates by identifying the most advantageous hyper plane that effectively distinguishes several categories of data, such as tigers from other animals or background
(Vidal et al., 2021).
Decision trees
Decision trees are highly efficient for the purpose of species identification. The classification of animals is accomplished by the utilization of a hierarchical decision tree graph, which takes into account characteristics such as size, stripes and color patterns (
Song and Lu, 2015).
ii). Unsupervised learning techniques
Clustering Algorithm
Clustering techniques such as k-means are useful for categorizing tigers according on their activities. For instance, they can assist in identifying social hierarchies or detecting atypical behavioural patterns, which could potentially indicate the presence of sickness or stress
(Tabianan et al., 2022).
iii). Deep learning
Convolutional neural networks (CNNs)
CNNs are highly proficient in image analysis and are commonly employed to detect and monitor tigers in photos and videos obtained from camera traps or drones
(Kishore et al., 2021). By discerning distinctive characteristics, they can distinguish certain individuals, enabling the continuous tracking of individual tigers
(Fergus et al., 2023). The experiment showed that, with an accuracy of 99.31%, it is feasible to obtain high animal detection accuracy across the 12 species.
Recurrent neural networks (RNNs)
RNNs are utilized in the study of time-series data, enabling the monitoring of actions and movements over a while. They can assist in comprehending tiger behaviors such as mating, hunting, or territorial patrolling (
Zhang, 2012).
2.4 Tracking and localization algorithms
Tiger monitoring relies on tracking and localization algorithms, which offer up-to-date data on the exact whereabouts and motion of these creatures. Various algorithms are utilized for this objective such as.
Kalman filters
Kalman filters are iterative estimators that forecast the future whereabouts of a tiger by leveraging its past coordinates. These devices are extremely useful for accurately tracking and determining the location of objects or individuals in real-time, especially in scenarios where the data may be unreliable or ambiguous. In contrast to tigers (AUC= 0.83, TSS= 0.66), leopard distribution maps had a notably high degree of discrimination (AUC= 0.90, TSS= 0.80)
(Rather et al., 2020).
Particle filters
Particle filters are capable of estimating the probability distribution of a tiger’s location, which makes them well-suited for situations where there is uncertainty or variability in the tracking data. They are especially beneficial for monitoring numerous tigers concurrently
(Kambhampati et al., 2004).
Hidden markov models (HMMs)
Hidden markov models (HMMs) are employed to represent the locomotion patterns of tigers. Through the analysis of seen data, it is possible to make predictions about concealed states, such as the whereabouts of a tiger, as well as the transitions that occur between these states
(Joo et al., 2013).
Image and video analysis techniques
Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) play a crucial role in the detection of tigers and can accurately distinguish individual tigers by recognizing their unique stripe patterns and facial traits
(Shi et al., 2020). In addition, tigers may be rapidly detected and localized in photos or movies using object detection techniques. YOLO (You Only Look Once) techniques provide swift detection and delineation of tigers, hence facilitating expedient analysis
(Srivastava et al., 2021). On the basis of this data, predictive algorithms, which frequently employ recurrent neural networks (RNNs), can predict future tiger behavior. These predictions are useful for organizing conservation strategies and mitigating conflicts between humans and tigers
(Chatterjee et al., 2022). In Sumatra, Indonesia, machine learning and thermal imaging drones were utilized to monitor leopards at night. This innovative method revealed crucial behavioural insights, such as foraging patterns and territorial migrations
(Rietz et al., 2023). Machine learning algorithms were employed at the Chitwan National Park in Nepal to analyze LiDAR data collected by drones. The provision of precise 3D maps of the park’s landscape significantly improved habitat preservation efforts
(Wu et al., 2023).