Emerging Technologies in Bird Monitoring and Research: Artificial Intelligence, eDNA, Remote Sensing, and Other Approaches

Introduction

Advances in emerging technologies are revolutionizing the way birds are studied and conserved. Artificial intelligence (AI), environmental DNA (eDNA), remote sensing, and miniaturized tracking devices are increasingly being adopted in ornithological research, enabling breakthroughs in species detection, population monitoring, behavioral analysis, habitat mapping, and migration studies. AI-driven image and sound recognition allow automated identification of birds and their activities, while eDNA provides powerful tools for detecting cryptic or elusive species. In parallel, satellite and drone-based remote sensing facilitates large-scale habitat assessment and dynamic monitoring of environmental changes. Moreover, lightweight backpack-mounted sensors and telemetry systems enable fine-scale tracking of individual birds, revealing migration routes, movement ecology, and habitat use in unprecedented detail. Together, these technologies open new possibilities for integrative, high-resolution, and data-rich avian research.

However, challenges remain in data integration, spatial and temporal resolution, and the standardization of analytical workflows. Moreover, linking these technological advances with ecological theory and conservation decision-making still requires interdisciplinary efforts. To address these opportunities and challenges, we propose a virtual special issue entitled “Emerging Technologies in Bird Monitoring and Research: Artificial Intelligence, eDNA, Remote Sensing, and Other Approaches”. This issue aims to highlight novel research, reviews, and methodological innovations that demonstrate how these technologies can advance our understanding of avian ecology and enhance conservation strategies.

Topics covered

• The coverage includes, but is not limited to, the following research topics:
• Applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning in avian research
• Automated bioacoustic and image-based monitoring of birds
• Integration of AI with eDNA, remote sensing, and field survey data
• eDNA techniques for avian diversity assessment and population monitoring
• Satellite, drone, and telemetry-based monitoring of bird habitats and migration routes
• Multimodal data fusion for bird detection, distribution modeling, and behavior analysis
• Development of intelligent and real-time monitoring systems for field applications
• Data standardization, interoperability, and open-access frameworks for avian technology research
• Linking technological innovation with ecological modeling and conservation planning

Submission instructions

All submissions to this Virtual Special Issue will undergo the full standard peer-review process of the journal Avian Research. Manuscripts should be formatted according to the Guide for Authors of the journal and submitted via the online editorial system. Remember to choose the short title of this Virtual Special Issue: “VSI: Bird Intelligent Monitoring and Research” when submitting the manuscript.

For more information, please contact the editorial office: avianresearch@bjfu.edu.cn

Submission deadline: August 31, 2026

Guest editors