Cameron Moore, 14, from Rotorua has developed an AI-based trap to humanely manage wallaby pests. He was inspired to create the trap after seeing a wallaby damage the local forest.
The trap uses artificial intelligence to detect the animal. If it identifies a wallaby, the trap activates. Other animals can pass safely.
Davor Bejakovich, from Bay of Plenty Regional Council, said wallabies are a big problem in the area. They harm plants, disrupt the food chain and damage crops.
Cameron’s invention won first place in Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow competition, which recognises young scientists in New Zealand. His trap is still a prototype, but he plans to test it in Whakarewarewa forest soon.
