AI Scarecrow Battles Intelligent Ravens and Crows in Swiss Fields
Scientists are tackling a persistent agricultural challenge: ravens and crows causing significant damage to crops. Agroscope in Switzerland is leading the way with a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach to repel these intelligent birds.
Ravens and crows pose a significant threat to newly sown winter cereals and young corn or sunflower fields. To combat this, Agroscope is testing an AI scarecrow that can recognize and repel these birds. The AI system adapts its scare effects to the type of crow encountered and their frequency, ensuring minimal acoustic disturbance.
The project, part of the broader ETHIC research initiative led by the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, goes beyond Switzerland's borders. It involves various research areas, investigating habitat mechanisms and techniques to optimize raven dispersal in agricultural environments. Other deterrent methods, such as treating seeds with repellent substances and interplanting, are also being tested alongside the AI scarecrow.
A comparative ethnological study will identify warning calls of different raven species in various geographical regions. This will help tailor the AI system's responses to the specific behaviors of local bird populations. Researchers acknowledge ravens' high intelligence and adaptability, making AI a promising tool for effective deterrence.
The AI scarecrow, a key part of the ETHIC project, shows promise in protecting crops from ravens and crows. By adapting to the birds' behaviors and using acoustic scare effects sparingly, it offers a sustainable solution to a longstanding agricultural challenge.
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