BuzzCopper

Coming soon, BuzzCopper is an insect detector for detecting Asian (Yellow-legged) Hornets. BuzzCopper takes a sequence of low-resolution photos over a bait station and uses machine vision processing to look for insect-shaped 'blobs'. If a blob is roughly the right size and shape it then takes a high resolution photo. This is uploaded to Google Cloud and screened through an AI image processing system (currently Google Vision aka Google Lens) to check what insect has been spotted. If the reported inferences contain e.g. 'Hornet' the device sends an alert email warning you, the device operator, of the sighting. You may then forward the link onto the appropriate authorities (e.g. the National Bee Unit in the UK) as you see fit.

If the device is operating out of WiFi range it will store any sightings on an SD card until it next senses a WiFi signal.

It runs off a rechargeable battery, which should last up to a week or can be powered through a USB cable.

The device is housed in a fizzy drink bottle with apertures cut for insect access. A platform that floats on the bait reservoir ensures that visitors cannot drown.

The first prototypes are currently being field tested in my garden, although we have no Asian Hornets here.

Limited quantities should be available for volunteer field testing in early summer 2025.

As with many IT projects it's the last 20% of the work that takes 80% of the time :-(

All IP will be open-sourced so you can build your own if you have the necessary expertise. Otherwise, they will be available from here and other outlets (tba) at an attractive price.

In association with Asian Hornet Alert (NFP)

Contact me