Event Schedule  1. Arrival: 05:00 pm - Pre-dinner drinks at Bamboo Forest
  2. Panda talk with Xing Qiu and Yi Lan by zookeepers: 05:30 pm
  3. Dinner: 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm - Three-course dinner at Fig Function Centre

 

Ms Jasmin Lu of The University of Adelaide

Ms Georgia Mason of The University of Adelaide

Ms Isabella Cordera of The University of Adelaide

Ms Anwitha Aromel of The University of Adelaide

Title:

AI for Animal Welfare: Monitoring Orangutan Behaviour and Emotion through Intelligent Systems

Abstract:

Identifying and understanding animal behaviour and emotional states remains a critical challenge in modern animal welfare assessment, particularly in zoo environments where individualised care is essential. Students from the University of Adelaide have worked on an interdisciplinary project to address this challenge by developing AI-based systems for monitoring orangutan behavior and recognizing emotional states at Adelaide Zoo. By integrating computer vision, machine learning, and behavioural science, the project enables continuous, non-intrusive observation to support zookeepers in making informed, data-driven decisions about animal care.

Using a camera system installed in the orangutan habitat, students applied pose estimation and deep learning techniques to classify behaviors such as resting, feeding, and social interaction. In parallel, they developed a facial recognition system to identify individual orangutans and interpret their emotional states through subtle facial expressions, using techniques such as Histogram of Oriented Gradients and YOLO-based models. This project not only enhances the zoo’s capacity for welfare monitoring but also offers students invaluable experience applying AI and robotics to real-world conservation challenges. The presentation will highlight the technical approaches, results, and broader impact of this work on animal care and interdisciplinary education.