On October 10-13, 2007, the National Geographic Society hosted a three-day conference to explore the past, present, and future of animal-borne imaging research, a growing discipline that integrates video, audio, environmental, geospatial, and physiological data collection in an animal-borne instrument. The conference provided a forum for current and potential users of animal-borne imaging, audio and data-logging instruments to discuss the research, conservation, and education implications of this method of investigation. Additionally, the Symposium engaged an eclectic group of scientists, educators, and students in exploring how to use the unique data gathered through this research to inspire broader engagement in science and conservation.

To encapsulate this knowledge, and make it available for reference, we've published our Animal-Borne Imaging Symposium Proceedings that can be downloaded from the link below.

Proceedings of the Animal-Borne Imaging Symposium (PDF)
DRAFT Symposium Schedule (PDF)



  • Keynote by Dr. Gerald Kooyman
  • Presentations on animal-borne imaging field research
  • Presentations on current and emerging imaging technologies
  • Panel discussions on future directions for research, data management and reduction, and the public outreach potential of these data

In addition to providing a forum for dynamic, interdisciplinary interaction among scientists, the symposium included a significant public outreach component:

  • NG Live! Events hosted a film and lecture series highlighting researchers whose work involves animal-borne imaging tools.
  • NG Live! Student Matinee conducted an afternoon program for students and teachers, featuring stories and footage captured in animal-borne imaging research.
  • NG Education and Children’s Programs presented teacher workshops showcasing student-focused, curriculum-based animal-borne imaging projects for the classroom.
  • NG Museum celebrated 20 years of Crittercam research with a 6,000-square-foot (557-square-meter) “Crittercam” exhibit at Explorer’s Hall.
  • NG Remote Imaging documented the event and interviewed participants for educational outreach efforts including films, interactive media and webcasts.
  • National Geographic Weekend, a talk show hosted by Boyd Matson, featured researchers as they shared the adventure and revelations in science made possible through animal-borne imaging.

Combined, these efforts made for an engaging experience for participating researchers, and an opportunity to connect broader audiences to the critical effort to understand and protect our planet.



National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Naval Research National Science Foundation