PAWS (Protection Assistant for Wildlife Security)

PAWS (Protection Assistant for Wildlife Security) is an AI-driven tool developed by the University of Southern California to assist in the protection of endangered species from poaching. The system integrates machine learning and game theory to analyze historical crime data, topography, and animal movement patterns. Based on this data, PAWS predicts where poachers are most likely to strike next and generates randomized, optimized patrol routes for park rangers. This unpredictability and precision enhance the effectiveness of limited enforcement resources. Field-tested in parks like Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park, PAWS significantly improves the detection of illegal traps and snares compared to traditional patrol methods.