Introduction

Wildlife monitoring plays a crucial role in understanding animal behavior, habitat usage, and conservation needs. Traditional monitoring methods often require human presence in sensitive environments, which can disturb animals and limit the accuracy of observations. To address this, the Smart Wildlife Monitoring and Surveillance System Using Raspberry Pi provides a cost-effective, automated solution that uses digital imaging and motion detection to track wildlife activity.

The system is designed using a Raspberry Pi, camera module, and motion sensors to capture and record wildlife movements in real time. It enables researchers, conservationists, and forest departments to remotely observe animals without physical presence, reducing disturbance and enhancing data collection. The system can operate continuously, storing or transmitting data for later analysis, making it ideal for deployment in forests, national parks, and other remote areas.

 Working Principle

The system operates by using an IR motion sensor (PIR sensor) to detect the presence or movement of animals within its sensing range. When motion is detected, the Raspberry Pi Camera is triggered to capture images or record video footage. The Raspberry Pi processes this input and stores the data locally on a microSD card or sends it to a remote server via Wi-Fi.

This trigger-based mechanism ensures efficient use of power and storage, as the camera is only activated when movement is detected. The captured media can be timestamped and organized for later analysis, enabling accurate tracking of animal behavior, time of activity, and frequency of visits.

 Methodology

1. Deployment and Setup

   • The Raspberry Pi and connected components are installed in a waterproof casing and placed at a suitable wildlife monitoring location (e.g., near animal trails or water sources).

2. Motion Detection

   • An IR sensor (PIR sensor) continuously monitors the area for movement.

   • When movement is detected, the sensor sends a signal to the Raspberry Pi.

3. Image/Video Capture

   • The Raspberry Pi triggers the Camera Module to capture an image or start recording a short video.

   • The media is saved with a timestamp to ensure traceability.

4. Data Logging and Storage

   • Captured images/videos are saved to the microSD card or sent over a wireless network if connected.

   • Optionally, the system can log motion events with date and time in a CSV file for reference.

5. Monitoring and Retrieval

   • Researchers can periodically collect the data or access it remotely for wildlife analysis and documentation.

 Components Used