Aussie English AE 1392 - The Goss: Why are Aussies Being Asked to Hunt Bugs?
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Nov 30, 2025 In this engaging conversation, Ian Smithson, the father of the host, shares his insights on citizen science and wildlife recording. They dive into a nationwide bug hunt that utilizes smartphones and AI to document insect populations. Ian discusses the importance of verifying sightings through community databases, as well as the value of using photos and audio for monitoring wildlife. The duo also explores innovative community-driven projects for landscape monitoring, emphasizing how neighborhood engagement enhances local ecosystems.
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Mass Participation Amplifies Research
- Citizen science scales data collection beyond formal science by mobilising everyday devices and people.
- Ian Smithson says widespread phone photos and motivation can capture occurrences scientists alone cannot.
Always Attach A Photo
- Use photos when submitting wildlife sightings to increase verification and acceptance.
- Pete Smissen notes databases and AI can auto-identify records from uploaded images for faster validation.
Outliers Signal New Threats
- AI-backed databases can flag outliers that indicate invasive or new species early.
- Ian Smithson highlights that unusual records are precisely what researchers need to monitor invasions.