A zoologist has stated that the challenging nature of surveying Tibetan antelope stems from their delicate temperament and the high-altitude environments they inhabit.
Chinese researchers have reportedly deployed a disguised robotic dog to gain closer insights into the lives of the elusive Tibetan antelope, according to Xinhua.
The agency reported on Tuesday that the machine successfully completed a trial operation in late July within the Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve, situated at an elevation exceeding 4,600 meters in China’s Tibet.
Designed to replicate the skeletal structure of a Tibetan antelope and covered with artificial fur crafted from samples taken from the animals, the new robotic addition was swiftly accepted by the herd.
During the three-day trial, the robot was only able to record footage of the antelope grazing. However, scientists are optimistic it will eventually capture more compelling scenes, such as animals giving birth.
“The ultimate goal is to ensure the safe migration of Tibetan antelopes, with minimal human interference,” Lian Xinming, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, conveyed to Xinhua.
A “ Tibetan antelope” recently joined a real herd, capturing close-up data beyond human reach. The curious paused grazing to inspect their unusual new friend.
— Shanghai Daily (@shanghaidaily)
The decision to utilize the robotic device was driven by the difficulties of studying Tibetan antelope in their natural habitat, which is characterized by extreme cold and low oxygen levels, making prolonged human presence impossible. Additionally, the animals are highly sensitive; close human interaction risks causing stress, potentially leading to miscarriages in pregnant females. Despite these challenges, scientists emphasize their role as crucial ecological indicators on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
The inspiration for developing a robotic Tibetan antelope reportedly came to the researchers after witnessing a group of robots perform a dance at the televised Spring Festival Gala in February.
The creators of the quadruped robot used in the experiment affirmed that their hardware is specifically “designed to perform in hazardous, complex environments, including extremely harsh terrains.” Xinhua reported that the machine traversed approximately 2km across challenging terrain during the trial, successfully navigating various obstacles.
Tibetan antelope were previously classified as an endangered species due to rampant poaching for their exceptionally soft, light, and warm underfur. Nevertheless, conservation efforts undertaken by Chinese authorities have led to a significant increase in their population, from around 70,000 in the 1990s to nearly 300,000, according to government statistics.