EarthRanger

Protecting wildlife with real-time data

The logo for earthranger is a product of ai2

EarthRanger is a software solution that aids protected area managers, ecologists, and wildlife biologists in making more informed operational decisions for wildlife conservation. 

EarthRanger is a cutting-edge conservation software solution designed to empower protected area managers, ecologists, and wildlife biologists with real-time data to make informed decisions for wildlife conservation. As conservation challenges such as deforestation, poaching, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade escalate, the need for a comprehensive tool like EarthRanger becomes increasingly critical. By integrating and visualizing historical and real-time data from various sources, EarthRanger provides a unified view of wildlife movements, ranger activities, and other key assets within a protected area, enabling more effective conservation strategies.

Key Features

  • Real-time Visualization: Collects and displays data from sensors, mobile devices, and field reports in real-time, providing a comprehensive overview of activities within a protected area.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitates data sharing and collaboration between multiple team members and neighboring protected areas for coordinated efforts.
  • Informed Patrol Planning: Uses real-time and historical data to guide patrol planning and increase effectiveness.
  • Ecological Trend Analysis: Analyzes data to identify trends in animal behavior, ecological changes, and habitat conditions.
  • Customizable Alerts: Allows configuration of alerts via WhatsApp, email, or text message for timely responses to incidents.
  • Mobile Device Support: Accessible on various devices including tablets and phones, with a mobile app for real-time tracking and event reporting.
  • Integrated Data: Supports integration with over 70 hardware devices and multiple software platforms for a holistic view of conservation data.
  • User-friendly Interface: Requires minimal training and no IT staff, with an intuitive, web-based platform.
  • Dedicated Support: Offers a dedicated team to assist with implementation and ongoing support.


A laptop and a cell phone with a map on the screen.

Detailed Overview of EarthRanger

Real-time Visualization for Effective Management

EarthRanger excels in providing a real-time, unified view of all activities within a protected area. By integrating data from various sources—including sensors, ranger patrols, and field reports—the software delivers an up-to-date, comprehensive picture that enables protected area managers to monitor wildlife, assess threats, and deploy resources more effectively. This capability is particularly valuable for responding to poaching incidents and other security threats in a timely manner.


Enhanced Collaboration Across Protected Areas

One of EarthRanger's standout features is its ability to foster collaboration between multiple teams and protected areas. The software allows data to be shared seamlessly, enabling joint patrol missions and coordinated responses to incidents. This collaborative approach not only enhances the security of protected areas but also promotes regional conservation efforts by ensuring that data and resources are utilized optimally.


Informed Patrol Planning and Ecological Management

EarthRanger leverages both real-time and historical data to inform patrol planning and track the effectiveness of conservation efforts. By analyzing this data, managers can make evidence-based decisions that enhance the protection of wildlife and their habitats. Additionally, the software’s ability to analyze habitat trends provides critical insights into ecological changes, helping managers to adapt their strategies in response to evolving environmental conditions.


Mobile Access and Configurable Alerts

The flexibility of EarthRanger extends to its support for mobile devices, allowing managers and rangers to access data and receive alerts on the go. The EarthRanger mobile application enables real-time tracking, event reporting, and patrol management directly from the field, even in remote areas without radio or satellite communication. Alerts can be customized to suit specific needs, ensuring that critical information is delivered promptly and to the right people.


Seamless Data Integration and Security

With integrations to over 70 hardware devices and numerous software platforms, EarthRanger provides a comprehensive view of conservation data. This level of integration is crucial for building a holistic understanding of conservation areas and facilitating further analysis with tools like Esri and Tableau. Moreover, EarthRanger ensures that sensitive data is kept secure, with configurable access controls that allow managers to decide who can view or edit information.


User-friendly Design and Dedicated Support

EarthRanger is designed to be accessible and easy to use, requiring no specialized IT staff for operation. The web-based platform is intuitive, with visual tools that simplify training for rangers and managers. In addition, EarthRanger offers dedicated support to assist with the implementation and successful deployment of the software, ensuring that conservation teams can focus on their mission without technical hurdles.

A man is standing in front of a bunch of monitors in a room.

About EarthRanger

Since its inception in 2015, EarthRanger has helped protected area managers make informed, conservation-related operational decisions. It is also used by ecologists and biologists to study wildlife and habitats, and to advocate for their protection.


Developed by Vulcan LLC, in partnership with many conservation and technology partners, it is a software solution that combines real-time data from ranger patrols, remote imaging and many, various sensors. As of September 2021, EarthRanger is a product of Ai2. This move combines world-class research, engineering, product resources and talent to create greater positive impact, as envisioned by the late Paul G. Allen.


All information, images and videos sourced from https://www.earthranger.com/

Share this article

Quicklinks

A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Show More
A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Man testing river

New Oxford Rivers Portal Empowers Public to Monitor River Thames Health

By Johann Nortje • September 17, 2024
A new digital platform, the Oxford Rivers Portal, has been launched to provide the public with real-time data on the health of the River Thames. This innovative website allows users to access critical information about water quality, sewage spills, and water levels, enabling people to make informed decisions when planning recreational activities like swimming, canoeing, or paddle boarding.
Elephants

Global Trends in Wildlife Conservation: Embracing Innovation and Collaboration

By Zara Nyota • September 15, 2024
As climate change and human activities continue to pose significant challenges to biodiversity, global efforts in wildlife conservation are evolving rapidly. Conservation strategies are shifting toward more innovative, tech-driven approaches while fostering collaboration between governments, communities, and conservationists. This growing focus on wildlife conservation highlights the urgent need to protect endangered species and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
Copyright UNICEF South Africa/2022/Ngcobo Palesa uses the velocity plank in the water to record the

Strengthening Water Governance through Citizen Science: The Enviro-Champs Digital Innovation Pilot

By Johann Nortje • September 13, 2024
Advancing Community-Based Monitoring for Sustainable Water Resource Management Conventional water governance systems are increasingly inadequate in addressing the urgent challenges of water management and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These traditional frameworks, while essential, often lack inclusivity and fail to incorporate diverse perspectives, particularly from marginalized communities in the Global South. The result is a persistent gap in representation, where the Global North and wealthier regions dominate scientific discourse, leaving disaffected and indigenous voices unheard. Bridging this gap calls for innovative, inclusive approaches that empower local communities—those most affected by environmental and social challenges—to take an active role in water governance.

Valiance Solutions Launches WildlifeIQ

By Zara Nyota • September 4, 2024
A New Era of AI-Driven Wildlife Monitoring Revolutionizing Conservation Efforts with AI-Powered Insights Valiance Solutions has announced the launch of its groundbreaking AI-powered platform, WildlifeIQ, aimed at transforming wildlife monitoring and conservation practices. Renowned for its expertise in leveraging AI for digital transformation across various industries, Valiance Solutions now brings its technological prowess to wildlife conservation, offering a comprehensive tool designed to optimize wildlife management and protection. WildlifeIQ is a pioneering solution that integrates advanced AI algorithms with real-time data to provide intelligent insights into wildlife populations and their behaviors. This platform is set to be a game-changer, streamlining the traditionally labor-intensive process of wildlife monitoring, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making for conservationists and forest officials.

Great Southern BioBlitz 2024: Citizen Science with iNaturalist

By Zara Nyota • September 1, 2024
It’s that time of the year again when citizen scientists across the southern hemisphere are gearing up to explore the outdoors and contribute to the ever-growing repository of biodiversity data. The Great Southern BioBlitz (GSB), now in its fifth year, is set to take place from September 20-23, 2024, and promises to be bigger and better, continuing its upward trajectory in participant numbers and engagement.
More Posts