In the heart of Syracuse, New York, a quiet revolution is underway, not in the streets, but in the trees. Researchers, led by Adam F. Parlin from the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at Colorado State University, are harnessing the power of low-cost, open-source technology to monitor wildlife in ways previously unimaginable. Their work, published in the journal HardwareX (translated to English as “Hardware Science”), is not just about tracking squirrels; it’s about reshaping how we understand and interact with the natural world, with potential ripples extending into the energy sector.
Parlin and his team have developed two innovative tracking devices: an open-source LoRaWAN GNSS tracker and a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) development board GPS tracker. These devices, small enough to be attached to Eastern gray squirrels, are a testament to the power of customizable, low-cost technology. “Our goal was to create a versatile tool that researchers can adapt to various study organisms,” Parlin explains. “This isn’t just about tracking animals; it’s about empowering researchers to design and deploy specialized equipment tailored to their needs.”
The implications of this technology extend far beyond the realm of wildlife conservation. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from the enhanced data collection and analysis capabilities offered by these trackers. For instance, understanding animal movement patterns can aid in the strategic placement of wind turbines, minimizing their impact on bird and bat populations. Similarly, tracking wildlife can help energy companies mitigate risks and plan more effectively for infrastructure projects.
The trackers developed by Parlin’s team are not just technologically advanced; they are also user-friendly. Both units come with comprehensive documentation for setting up a LoRa application and network server, and they can be easily programmed using the Arduino Integrated Development Environment. This accessibility is a game-changer, democratizing the field of wildlife tracking and opening up new avenues for research and innovation.
The pilot test of these trackers on Eastern gray squirrels in Syracuse has already yielded promising results. The devices successfully collected detailed information on animal movement, providing valuable insights into the natural history and behavior of these creatures. But the potential applications of this technology are far broader. As Parlin notes, “The versatility of our trackers means they can be adapted for a wide range of study organisms, from small mammals to large birds. This opens up exciting possibilities for research and conservation efforts worldwide.”
The energy sector, too, is poised to benefit from these advancements. By leveraging the data collected through these trackers, energy companies can make more informed decisions about infrastructure planning and environmental impact assessments. This could lead to more sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions, aligning with the growing global emphasis on renewable energy and conservation.
In the broader context, this research highlights the transformative power of open-source technology. By making their designs and documentation publicly available, Parlin and his team are fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. This approach not only accelerates technological advancements but also ensures that the benefits of these innovations are widely accessible.
As we look to the future, the work of Parlin and his team serves as a beacon of what is possible when technology, conservation, and collaboration intersect. The trackers developed in Syracuse are more than just tools; they are a testament to the potential of open-source technology to drive progress and shape a more sustainable future. In the words of Parlin, “This is just the beginning. The possibilities are endless, and we are excited to see how this technology will continue to evolve and impact the world.”