Researchers at the Institute of Environmental Solutions have collected a sound "harvest" - data from triangulation microphones located in the forest sample area. Four microphones, synchronized with the GPS clock (with an accuracy of +/- 1 millisecond), recorded sound from the end of August until the beginning of October 2021 between 7 PM and 7 PM.
At the beginning of autumn, deer rutting takes place in nature. During this time, male red deer (Cervis elaphus) stags groan to show their dominance in the area and attract hinds for mating purposes. With the help of triangulation microphones, we can determine where the rutting is most active in the pilot area. By performing data analysis, we also plan to determine the approximate number of male red deer in the pilot area. Why? Because it is the number of male deer that is crucial in controlling the deer population - because one male deer can impregnate several hinds during the mating season.
The obtained sound data will be processed using a machine learning algorithm that is able to distinguish and note rutting calls in the sound recording. After the records will be processed using the algorithm, we will obtain a data set - a list of the time stamps of the record that include precise geographical coordinates, time and date. By processing this data set, we will be able to draw conclusions about deer activity in the pilot area.
We invite you to listen to the most expressive deer calls registered in the triangulation microphones last year!
The research is a part of the project “ICT-based wild animal census approach for sustainable wildlife management” (No. 1.1.1.1/18/A/146) is part of European Regional Development Fund, 1.1.1 "Improve research and innovation capacity and the ability of Latvian research institutions to attract external funding, by investing in human capital and infrastructure" 1.1.1.1. measure “Support for applied research”.
