Introducing Bird Buddy, the AI-powered bird feeder that not only provides food for birds but also captures candid photos and identifies the species of each bird that visits. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Bird Buddy CEO Franci Zidar explained that their product utilizes artificial intelligence technology to take clear and “interesting” snapshots of feeding birds. The AI detects when a bird lands, captures a photo, and then identifies the species, sending a notification to the owner’s mobile device along with the photo and bird information.
Zidar further stated that Bird Buddy has custom-built profiles for each identified bird, offering a mix of fun and educational information including the kind of foods they prefer and how they sing. The goal is to make bird-watching more accessible and enjoyable for people and to encourage them to explore the world of bird-watching. Additionally, Bird Buddy operates a live network that displays real-time images captured by the feeders online.
To develop their AI model, Zidar and his team, including an in-house ornithologist, deployed hundreds of cameras worldwide to collect data on various bird species. This data has allowed them to create a highly accurate and recognizable model. With over a million detections occurring daily, Bird Buddy has accumulated a vast dataset. Zidar, who has a history of creating products that gamify the outdoors, aims to reconnect people with nature through Bird Buddy, as feeding birds is the second-largest outdoor hobby in the US and one of the top 10 favorite outdoor activities nationwide.
Bird Buddy has multiple layers of impact, including the use of bird detection data for research on bird migration and other crucial aspects of animal protection. Zidar shared that future advancements could involve identifying specific birds without physically tagging them, allowing for easier tracking. By joining the Bird Buddy network, users become part of a larger cause and contribute to the shared dataset. Looking ahead, Bird Buddy plans to expand its network through Bird Buddy Explore, providing access to feeders in 30 remote locations around the world.
Furthermore, Bird Buddy promotes mental health and a connection to nature. Research from the UK Mental Health Foundation shows that being connected to nature leads to increased happiness and lower levels of depression and anxiety. Engaging in bird feeding is a simple way to contribute to environmental preservation. Bird Buddy has recently introduced two new accessories for its feeders, the Bird Buddy Perch Extender and the Bird Buddy 3-in-1 Nutrition Set, which includes a water fountain, jelly tray, and fruit spike.
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