Development of a Smart Non-Lethal Trap Prototype Utilising ESP32-CAM and PIR Sensor

The increasing global concern regarding humane pest control methods and the need for effective small mammal management in various environments have prompted the development of innovative technologies. This paper presents our ongoing design of a novel smart non-lethal trap prototype for small animals equipped with an ESP32-CAM and PIR sensor. To differentiate between domestic pets and rodents, ResNet50 is utilised and capable of classifying five animals: cats, dogs, martens, rat or mice, and hedgehogs. Traditional rodent control methods often rely on lethal means, which pose ethical and ecological challenges. Most pest control businesses also use the labour-intensive strategy of physically setting up and maintaining rodenticide bait stations on a commercial basis. To address these issues, our prototype leverages the capabilities of the ESP32-CAM to create an intelligent non-lethal trapping solution with the ability to remotely free unwanted captured animals via the cloud.