Acoustical Research Company
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Our Mission
Advancing acoustical research on unrecorded native and invasive
species: Our Organization seeks to conduct pioneering acoustical research aimed at identifying and understanding previously undocumented mammalian, avian, reptilian, insect species through sound analysis. By leveraging advanced technology and innovative methodologies, our interdisciplinary team aims to unlock new insights into the biodiversity of mammalian, avian, reptilian, insect species globally, contributing to conservation efforts and expanding our understanding of animal communication and behavior.
Many mammalian, avian, reptilian, insect species remain unidentified or poorly understood due to various factors, including remote habitats, nocturnal behavior, and cryptic nature, changing weather patterns and human activity. Traditional methods of identification often prove challenging or ineffective. Acoustic analysis offers a promising approach to bridge this gap, as it provides a non-invasive means to identify species based on their unique vocalizations and calls. With conservation as one of our main objectives we collect no samples and take no species. We just record the sounds they make and atmospheric conditions while they're doing it!!
Project Objectives
Our non-invasive approach
Our project is dedicated to capturing and analyzing acoustic data from a variety of habitats, employing a non-invasive method to detect and classify calls from unidentified species. We utilize advanced, high-fidelity recording equipment strategically placed in ecosystems such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands, particularly focusing on areas with solid topographies known for their sound-reflecting properties. Our team is developing bespoke machine learning algorithms trained on recordings of known wildlife vocalizations, enabling us to efficiently identify and categorize new species' sounds.
Fieldwork is a crucial component, involving collaborations with local researchers, conservationists, and indigenous communities to ensure sustainable and ethical research practices. We rigorously manage and analyze our data, employing both manual and automated techniques to review acoustic recordings. Recordings are meticulously organized and analyzed, incorporating additional environmental data logged to provide a comprehensive dataset. ​A standout feature of our approach is to create custom machine learning algorithm, capable of processing thousands of hours of audio much faster than manual methods. This technology will not only accelerate the research but also helps future-proof biodiversity by creating an extensive catalog of wildlife sounds, including those of species potentially threatened by climate change. Moreover, we are deeply invested in studying how weather influences wildlife vocalizations. By installing weather stations at each sampling site, we continuously monitor and record meteorological data, which is synchronized with our acoustic data. This integrated dataset allows us to explore correlations and visualize how changes in weather conditions, such as temperature and humidity, impact animal behavior and sound propagation. ​In conclusion, our project merges cutting-edge technology with traditional fieldwork to offer valuable insights into ecological dynamics and to assist in the conservation of natural soundscapes for future generations. Through sharing our findings in scientific publications and conferences, we aim to contribute to global understanding and preservation of biodiversity.
The Device
Stand alone CZM (Compression Zone Mic) remote deployment platform prototype
Our prototype is capable of consistently capturing top-quality audio for 7 to 12 days while operating solely on battery power. With the expectation that it will be able to operate longer utilizing solar recharging capabilities as well as data uplink via iot.
This device facilitates long-term deployment as a high-fidelity wildlife recording station managed by The A.R.C. team, equipped with satellite connectivity for regular status updates via iot.
Bi-Weekly physical In person checks of the device will be needed to remove full storage cards and replace them with empty ones.
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Alternative configuration and abilities:Â Other configuration options and capabilities include deploying three of these microphones within their range to triangulate the precise location of specific wildlife, aiding specialized researchers in narrowing down search areas. Additionally, we aspire to produce multiple units suitable for deployment across the United States and with big hope the globe! Deployed by researchers with limited technical expertise, particularly in regions of high wildlife activity, to compile a comprehensive database of calls and other sounds of any known wildlife with the hope of identification of presently undiscovered species. Or at the very least capturing the sounds they make.
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