Drones – 'magic eyes' protecting tigers, rhinos and elephants

Nepal is proving that technology is not just a modern tool but also a “protector” of nature. The use of drones not only helps protect wildlife but also creates a sustainable conservation model that can be replicated in other countries.

WWF Nepal staff use a drone in Bardia Park, Nepal. (Source: Getty Images)

Drone – “divine eye” in the jungle sky

Drones have become an indispensable tool in conservation, helping to monitor species like the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros and Asian elephant without disrupting their natural behavior, according to Gokarna Jung Thapa, head of technology at WWF Nepal.

With its long-range capabilities and thermal cameras, drones can detect unusual activity at night, when poaching is common. Drones can also capture aerial images, which can help make population counts more accurate, especially for species that live in hard-to-reach areas.

In addition, Drones are also used to detect early "troublemakers" such as elephants or rhinos approaching residential areas, thereby warning people and directing animals back to the forest.

“Drones help us monitor large areas, save time and provide visual evidence to law enforcement agencies,” said Gokarna Jung Thapa.

Crocodile numbers are easily aggregated via drone. (Source: Getty Images)

From testing to modernization

Nepal began testing drones in 2012 with a 2-meter wingspan device that integrates a camera and GPS.

To date, the technology has been significantly upgraded with high-resolution thermal cameras supporting night surveillance, geo-tagging features for precise positioning, flight time of more than 1 hour and a surveillance range of up to 30 km. In particular, the vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability helps drones operate effectively in rugged mountainous terrain.

These modern drones replace traditional patrolling methods such as on foot, bicycles, motorboats and even elephants – which are expensive and dangerous.

A tiger at Bardia National Park, Nepal. (Source: Bardia)

In Bardia, groups of local volunteers – especially young people – are trained to use drones to support conservation work. They can detect “troublesome” animals from a distance, warn people and share the data with the national park management.

“The sound of the drone resembles that of a bee, which scares the elephants and makes them turn back.” – Manju Mahatara, guide and member of the anti-poaching team.

Thanks to conservation efforts, the number of Bengal tigers in Nepal has nearly tripled from 2010 to 2022, reaching 355 individuals. One-horned rhinos have also increased from 645 in 2015 to 752 in 2021.

Minh Hoan

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/drone-mat-than-bao-ve-ho-te-giac-va-voi-ar962047.html