The Crane Radar
The Crane Radar is a predictive map that gives birdwatchers a real-time indication of where and when crane birds can be spotted and the direction they are heading.
March of this year, Wageningen University (WUR) and Sensing Clues tested the first online version. Based on observations made by citizen scientists via the platform Waarneming.nl, flocks of cranes appeared on the map. An animation then showed the likely location of these flocks, based on the most recent observations, over 20 years of historic observations, and knowledge about for example their average flying speed.
Challenges
To improve the predictions, the hackathon was aimed at finding ways to incorporate additional environmental factors, such as local weather conditions. In addition we wanted to crack several technical issues of the web application, to allow as many bird enthusiasts as possible to use the crane radar during the upcoming autumn migration.
Results
Based on GPS data provided by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, we were not only able to confirm that wind speed and direction significantly impact the speed and direction of cranes. We also cracked the mathematics behind drift and compensation, two important factors for improving our predictions.
What’s next
In the upcoming months the WUR and Sensing Clues are refining the models and preparing the website. We’ll bring it live in September, about a month before the actual migration starts.
Keep an eye out for our new and improved Crane Radar!
