Researchers are using drones and AI to count dugongs in the ocean

Counting dugongs in the ocean can be a pretty difficult task. That's why Australian marine mammal researcher Dr. Amanda Hodgson, from Murdoch University in Western Australia, is trying to see if drones can provide an easier and more accurate way to keep track of the endangered sea animal. SEE ALSO: Pizza delivered by drone? It's been done for real in New Zealand At the moment, aerial surveys of dugongs are still a largely low-tech exercise. They're conducted via plane, with four researchers on board.