Wildlife Tracking Makes a Comeback Despite Advances in A.I. Technology

Tracking wildlife is an ancient art that has played a crucial role in human evolution. From helping our ancestors hunt for food to shaping our brains and language, tracking has been a fundamental skill that has propelled us forward as a species. Today, in a world dominated by technology, the practice of tracking is experiencing a revival as biologists and researchers turn to this traditional method to gather valuable data about wildlife.

The resurgence of tracking in wildlife biology is evident in various studies and conservation efforts around the world. From monitoring wolves in Wisconsin to studying lynx and wolverines in Montana, tracking has become a valuable tool for understanding animal behavior, abundance, and distribution. Volunteers trained in tracking are playing a significant role in collecting data and contributing to scientific research, making tracking a democratic and accessible way to gain information about wildlife.

The roots of this tracking revival can be traced back to South Africa, where Louis Liebenberg, a physics student turned tracker, recognized the scientific value of traditional tracking methods. Liebenberg’s work with the San people led to the development of CyberTracker, a system that allows trackers to record and share observations using a pictorial interface. This system has been instrumental in preserving traditional knowledge and providing Indigenous trackers with credentials for employment in conservation and ecotourism.

In North America, the adoption of CyberTracker’s protocols has led to a resurgence of interest in tracking. Mark Elbroch, a wildlife biologist, has been instrumental in bringing CyberTracker’s standards to the United States and training a new generation of trackers. By combining traditional tracking methods with modern technology, researchers are gaining valuable insights into wildlife behavior and ecology.

Tracking wildlife not only provides valuable data for conservation and research but also offers a deeper connection to the natural world. For many, tracking is a way to rekindle a sense of wonder and curiosity about the creatures that share our planet. It allows us to see the world through the eyes of animals, to understand their movements, behaviors, and interactions with the environment.

As tracking gains momentum in the field of wildlife biology, researchers are working to overcome challenges related to accuracy and reliability. While technology like satellite collars and camera traps offer valuable data, tracking provides a unique perspective that complements these methods. By combining traditional tracking skills with modern technology, researchers are gaining a more comprehensive understanding of wildlife populations and their habitats.

The resurgence of tracking is not just a scientific endeavor but also a cultural and educational one. By engaging diverse communities in tracking workshops and evaluations, organizations like Tracker Certification are working to make tracking more accessible and inclusive. From urban environments to remote wilderness areas, tracking is helping people of all backgrounds connect with nature and learn about the wildlife that surrounds them.

In conclusion, the revival of tracking in wildlife biology represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. By embracing the ancient art of tracking and combining it with modern technology, researchers are gaining new insights into the natural world. Tracking not only provides valuable data for conservation and research but also fosters a deeper connection between humans and wildlife, reminding us of our shared history and interconnectedness with the creatures that inhabit our planet.