A new network dubbed Automated Remote Biodiversity Monitoring Network (Arbimon) has been created by scientists, which is capable of monitoring wildlife in tropical rainforests. It has been developed using iPods, solar panels and car batteries.

The system allows them to collect data for 24 hours a day using a network of radio-connected listening posts around the world. The sound track helps them to check the effect of environmental changes on the endangered species.

These changes include effects such as deforestation and climate change. The system uses iPod recording application to capture about 144 one-minute audios of animal calls per day. Most of the components of the system are enveloped in watertight case.

It runs on a 50-watt solar panel that charges the battery. It has been deployed in Brazil, Argentina, Hawaii, and Arizona to keep track of the species. The system was initially tested in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. The system works by identifying the species on the recordings automatically. The audio data can be used to identify endangered species.

"We feel that we've created tools that will help the community improve biodiversity monitoring. That's the most important part about it", says Mitchell Aide, a Biologist at the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras and the Arbimon Project Leader.