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A new acoustic bird survey developed by ÁÕÀÅÊÓƵ has shown how advanced wireless technology can be used to monitor birdlife more effectively.

The survey, supported by the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR), forms part of the Green Box project, which uses small, low?impact acoustic sensors to listen for birdsong across farms and a range of habitats in Shropshire.

Researchers are now set to unveil some of their findings at a new event – including some surprising rarities for the county.

Using artificial intelligence, the sensors can identify different bird species automatically, with the information displayed on an open?access dashboard for researchers and partners.

By capturing data continuously rather than relying on occasional site visits, the Green Box survey shows how wireless monitoring can help build a clearer picture of how both red and amber listed species are using the landscape, supporting better?informed land management and conservation decisions.

Researchers say the quality and consistency of the data means the technology has clear potential to support the identification and monitoring of red? and amber?listed birds as the analysis progresses.

This creates opportunities to spot changes in bird activity earlier and strengthen understanding of biodiversity trends at a local and catchment scale.

The survey identified the sounds of firecrest and pink-footed goose which are rarely observed in the county.

Dr Joseph Mhango, senior lecturer in applied data science at ÁÕÀÅÊÓƵ, said: “What this work shows is that wireless technology can give us a much richer, longer?term understanding of bird activity across different habitats. The consistency of the data we’re collecting means it has real potential to support conservation planning and help us track species of concern more effectively over time.”

The findings from the acoustic bird survey will be shared at a free to attend event at Shropshire Wildlife Trust’s offices in Shrewsbury at 6pm  tomorrow – Tuesday, March 24, where people will hear more about how the technology works, what the survey has demonstrated so far, and how it could support future nature recovery and biodiversity.

Matt Smith, RSPAWIR programme manager, said: “This project shows how digital innovation can be applied in a very practical way to support the natural environment. Through RSPAWIR, we are testing technology that can improve the evidence we use to make decisions, support biodiversity planning and help protect vulnerable species across Shropshire and the wider Severn catchment.”

The Green Box project is one of a number of initiatives supported by the £4.4 million RSPAWIR programme, which is funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and managed by Shropshire Council.

The programme focuses on demonstrating how advanced wireless connectivity can deliver environmental, social and economic benefits across water management, rural industries and the public sector.