New technologies

Detection and monitoring of rare and common, endangered and invading pest species has long been a challenge to environmental managers and researchers. Conservation strategies cannot be applied with confidence, or pest animal eradication assured, unless we can measure animal population size and its trend.

The Centre has brought together chemists, ecologists, engineers and molecular biologists in pursuit and application of new technologies for detecting, capturing and monitoring of wild animals. From new chemical lures for exotic pests like the Australian brushtail possum, to call detection systems for kiwi and bats, we are providing advanced tools to environmental and conservation agencies.