Globalstar Europe Satellite Services, a division of Globalstar, has recently highlighted its IoT satellite technology‘s critical role in safeguarding endangered species in Africa, particularly rhinos.
The company leverages advanced satellite-enabled tracking devices, integrating Globalstar’s compact and lightweight ST100 chipset. These devices are instrumental in monitoring rhinos and combating illegal poaching. This initiative is led by Wintec Solutions, a Johannesburg-based animal tracking specialist and a valued Globalstar reseller.
Wintec Solutions has rolled out GSatSolar, a solar-powered tracking device, centred on the ST100 satellite IoT transmitter. This device, affordable and easy to use, is ideally suited for wildlife monitoring. Its design allows for discreet attachment to animals through ear tagging or collars. The affordability of GSatSolar enables its use in monitoring larger wildlife populations.
In regions where nature reserves stretch over vast remote areas beyond GSM mobile network coverage, satellite communication is essential for continuous wildlife monitoring. The compact and lightweight design of GSatSolar ensures minimal disturbance to the animals, while its robustness guarantees durability.
Rene Winter, Director at Wintec Solutions, emphasised the device’s impact: “Its physical attributes make GSatSolar a game changer, transforming the possibilities for wildlife conservation and livestock management.”
In addition, Wintec Solutions is extending its conservation efforts to other species across Africa. The Giraffe Conservation Foundation uses the technology for tracking giraffe movements and monitoring reintroduced animals. Dr Courtney Marneweck from the Foundation shared, “We are currently trialling GSatSolar ear tags on giraffe in Namibia. The first units were deployed in June this year and, while field trials are still ongoing, the data received so far are very promising. We’re looking forward to deploying more units in the future and testing them in different countries.”
Wintec Solutions is also collaborating with conservationists for wild buffalo protection in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, employing satellite technology and Globalstar-enabled tags. This project helps in understanding buffalo migration to manage the spread of Bovine Tuberculosis. The technology is being tested on pangolins as well, another critically endangered species.
The tracking platform UI developed by Wintec Solutions includes a mapping portal for monitoring individual and group movements of animals. This tool provides insights into their grazing habits, nutritional locations, seasonal breeding patterns, and overall health and well-being.
Concluding, Winter stated, “Our wildlife preservation activities take place well beyond the reach of GSM mobile; Globalstar’s satellite network, with its ubiquitous reach and reliability, is fundamental in the operations being carried out to protect endangered species.”
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