a white background with a pattern of yellow lines on it .

CyberTracker

Discover, explore & protect our planet
iNaturalist logo

CyberTracker is a powerful and versatile software tool for mobile data capture and visualization, designed to assist in developing a global environmental monitoring network.

Since its inception in 1997, CyberTracker has empowered conservationists, scientists, and communities around the world to collect data more effectively, enhancing efforts in biodiversity protection, research, and education. By combining indigenous tracking knowledge with modern technology, CyberTracker supports diverse applications in conservation, research, farming, forestry, community science, and education.

What is CyberTracker?

CyberTracker is a conservation software designed for mobile data collection and visualization. It was developed to accommodate users of all literacy levels, including non-literate indigenous trackers, enabling them to participate in scientific research and biodiversity monitoring. Its user-friendly interface, based on icons, facilitates quick and accurate data input in the field, even in remote areas without network connectivity. The platform also supports advanced customization, making it adaptable for a wide range of environmental monitoring and conservation activities worldwide.

Key Features of CyberTracker

  • User-Friendly Icon Interface: Designed for non-literate users, allowing data collection without the need for reading or writing skills.
  • Mobile and Offline Data Capture: Collect data on smartphones or tablets even without internet access; sync when connectivity is available.
  • Customizable Screen Templates: Allows users to create tailored data capture applications to suit specific project needs.
  • Integrated Data Visualization: Provides map and table views for easy data querying and analysis without needing GIS skills.
  • Support for Multiple Sectors: Used globally in conservation, research, farming, forestry, community science, education, and more.
  • Export Data for Advanced Analysis: Data can be exported in various formats, such as CSV, for detailed analysis using external tools.
  • Low Technical Support Requirement: Simple to use and configure, reducing the need for costly technical assistance.


things you can do with CyberTracker

CyberTracker Features in Detail

User-Friendly Icon Interface

The CyberTracker interface is specifically designed to accommodate users with varying literacy levels. By using an icon-based system, it allows indigenous trackers and other non-literate users to record observations, track wildlife movements, and monitor ecosystems with precision. This innovation has helped bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern science, providing a platform for inclusive participation in conservation efforts.

Mobile and Offline Data Capture

CyberTracker is optimized for field use, allowing data collection on mobile devices without internet connectivity. This offline capability is essential for work in remote or challenging environments where network access is limited. Once back online, the data can be seamlessly synchronized, ensuring that all information is captured and stored safely.

Customizable Screen Templates

Nontechnical users can build and customize their mobile data capture applications using screen templates provided by CyberTracker. These templates are adaptable to various environmental monitoring activities, from simple wildlife surveys to complex ecological studies, making the platform highly versatile and user-friendly.

Integrated Data Visualization

CyberTracker’s integrated data visualization tools, including map and table views, enable users to analyze their collected data effectively. These tools are designed to be intuitive, requiring no specialized GIS knowledge, which simplifies the process of drawing insights from field data for informed decision-making.

Support for Multiple Sectors

CyberTracker is not limited to conservation alone; it has found applications across various sectors. From community science and environmental education to forestry, farming, and social surveys, CyberTracker’s adaptability makes it a valuable tool for numerous stakeholders invested in environmental and biodiversity monitoring.

Export Data for Advanced Analysis

The data collected through CyberTracker can be exported in formats like CSV, enabling further analysis using advanced data analytics software. Future updates will expand these export options to include widely-used formats like Shapefiles, enhancing the platform’s compatibility with different analytical tools and systems.

About CyberTracker

CyberTracker was founded on the idea that the ancient art of tracking could be revitalized and developed into a new science for monitoring the impacts of climate change on biodiversity. Starting with indigenous Kalahari San trackers, CyberTracker projects have spread worldwide, merging indigenous knowledge with cutting-edge technology. Today, it continues to provide accessible tools for environmental monitoring, empowering local communities, scientists, and educators to protect our planet for future generations.


CyberTracker is more than just a software tool; it is a movement to develop a Worldwide Environmental Monitoring Network. With a mission to combine indigenous knowledge and modern technology, CyberTracker has enabled communities and conservationists around the globe to document, understand, and protect biodiversity in innovative ways. From the Kalahari to the Amazon, from conservation areas to classrooms, CyberTracker empowers users of all backgrounds to engage with science and environmental stewardship, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future.


All information, images and videos sourced from https://cybertracker.org/

Share this article

Quicklinks

A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Show More
A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Man testing river

New Oxford Rivers Portal Empowers Public to Monitor River Thames Health

By Johann Nortje • September 17, 2024
A new digital platform, the Oxford Rivers Portal, has been launched to provide the public with real-time data on the health of the River Thames. This innovative website allows users to access critical information about water quality, sewage spills, and water levels, enabling people to make informed decisions when planning recreational activities like swimming, canoeing, or paddle boarding.
Elephants

Global Trends in Wildlife Conservation: Embracing Innovation and Collaboration

By Zara Nyota • September 15, 2024
As climate change and human activities continue to pose significant challenges to biodiversity, global efforts in wildlife conservation are evolving rapidly. Conservation strategies are shifting toward more innovative, tech-driven approaches while fostering collaboration between governments, communities, and conservationists. This growing focus on wildlife conservation highlights the urgent need to protect endangered species and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
Copyright UNICEF South Africa/2022/Ngcobo Palesa uses the velocity plank in the water to record the

Strengthening Water Governance through Citizen Science: The Enviro-Champs Digital Innovation Pilot

By Johann Nortje • September 13, 2024
Advancing Community-Based Monitoring for Sustainable Water Resource Management Conventional water governance systems are increasingly inadequate in addressing the urgent challenges of water management and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These traditional frameworks, while essential, often lack inclusivity and fail to incorporate diverse perspectives, particularly from marginalized communities in the Global South. The result is a persistent gap in representation, where the Global North and wealthier regions dominate scientific discourse, leaving disaffected and indigenous voices unheard. Bridging this gap calls for innovative, inclusive approaches that empower local communities—those most affected by environmental and social challenges—to take an active role in water governance.

Valiance Solutions Launches WildlifeIQ

By Zara Nyota • September 4, 2024
A New Era of AI-Driven Wildlife Monitoring Revolutionizing Conservation Efforts with AI-Powered Insights Valiance Solutions has announced the launch of its groundbreaking AI-powered platform, WildlifeIQ, aimed at transforming wildlife monitoring and conservation practices. Renowned for its expertise in leveraging AI for digital transformation across various industries, Valiance Solutions now brings its technological prowess to wildlife conservation, offering a comprehensive tool designed to optimize wildlife management and protection. WildlifeIQ is a pioneering solution that integrates advanced AI algorithms with real-time data to provide intelligent insights into wildlife populations and their behaviors. This platform is set to be a game-changer, streamlining the traditionally labor-intensive process of wildlife monitoring, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making for conservationists and forest officials.

Great Southern BioBlitz 2024: Citizen Science with iNaturalist

By Zara Nyota • September 1, 2024
It’s that time of the year again when citizen scientists across the southern hemisphere are gearing up to explore the outdoors and contribute to the ever-growing repository of biodiversity data. The Great Southern BioBlitz (GSB), now in its fifth year, is set to take place from September 20-23, 2024, and promises to be bigger and better, continuing its upward trajectory in participant numbers and engagement.
More Posts
Share by: