New research is revealing fascinating insights into how we understand and interact with animals. From artificial intelligence deciphering pig emotions to domestic animals sensing earthquakes, here's what's new:
AI Translates Pig Emotions:
Scientists at the University of the West of England and the Scottish Rural College are developing 'Intellipig,' an AI system to monitor pig welfare.
The system analyzes facial expressions to detect stress, pain, and other emotions with 97% accuracy.
This technology aims to provide personalized care and early detection of health issues in farm animals.
Animals and Earthquake Prediction:
Anecdotal evidence suggests dogs and cats exhibit unusual behavior before earthquakes.
An Italian study found dogs howl and act strangely 40-70 seconds before tremors, possibly sensing P-waves.
Research from the Max Planck Institute indicates animals near earthquake epicenters react collectively up to 20 hours beforehand.
Experts at the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) analyzed cat behavior before a 2016 Japan earthquake, suggesting they sensed the initial P-wave.
These studies highlight the potential for technology and further research to deepen our understanding of animal behavior and improve their well-being.