Brazil’s AI-Powered Urubú System: Saving Lives and Preserving Habitat for Endangered Species

In Rio de Janeiro, a groundbreaking project is harnessing artificial intelligence technology to reduce wildlife collisions on roads in Brazil. According to the Brazilian Center for Studies in Road Ecology (CBEE), an estimated 475 million vertebrate animals die each year due to collisions with vehicles in the country. Species such as capybaras, armadillos, and opossums are among the most affected.

Gabriel Souto Ferrante, a student at the University of Sao Paulo, has been developing a system based on computer vision to detect species and alert drivers of their presence on the road. The project, in collaboration with the Institute of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at USP, aims to protect endangered animals such as pumas, giant anteaters, tapirs, maned wolves, and jaguarundis.

To implement this technology effectively, support from companies that manage roads is crucial. Access to cameras along routes and safety equipment will enable real-time alerts to drivers and road management companies. Additionally, this technology could improve safety for humans who are also at risk of accidents caused by animal crossings.

In Brazil, strategies such as ecological corridors and green bridges have been implemented to reduce habitat fragmentation caused by roads. However, these measures are insufficient given the country’s vast size. Traditional road signs warning of animal presence have limited effect on driver behavior. More extensive efforts are needed to protect wildlife and ensure safe movement for both animals and humans.

The Urubú System, a citizen science social network created by CBEE coordinator Alex Bager, has played a significant role in collecting data on wildlife roadkill in Brazil. This information has helped create public policies and legislation to protect animals. Despite financial challenges