WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Zoos and animal rights groups are expressing concern over the rise in AI-generated videos showing animals exhibiting unusual behavior.
These AI-generated videos seem to be flooding social media, and experts are warning that they can generate false information.
“Many of these videos are typically not accompanied by educational facts or information, so they attract more attention and attention, and they lack some of the context and information about the species,” said Lynley Schmidt, integrator and chief operating officer of Tanganyika Wildlife Park.
Recently, the Sedgwick County Zoo held an information session about how AI video of animals is changing the way people view animals, which could negatively impact wildlife conservation. Other local animal groups agree.
“I think this blog was something that no one knew they needed until we saw it, and everyone thought, 'Oh my gosh, this is what I wanted to say and what I was going to share.' So this was a very concise way to help spread the message of being skeptical of what you're seeing,” Schmidt said.
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Videos may be funny, but like the popular video of a gorilla breaking glass at a zoo, they can create false expectations. This video was generated by AI.
“I think it's going to be important to help manage people's expectations moving forward in the world of AI and what they can expect when they come to the park,” Schmidt said.
There are also concerns about how these AI videos are driving people away from educational platforms.
“My biggest fear is that people will get tired of seeing fake content and stop watching our content and stop interacting with our great zoo,” Schmidt said.
Animal groups say the best way to educate yourself is to interact with actual zoos and conservation groups to avoid being fooled by misinformation.
“As AI-generated content increases, I think we need to get our messages louder and more creatively to make sure we get our messages across to people,” Schmidt said.
The Sedgwick County Zoo also says it's important to be selective about social media with factual information not only about the animals, but also about the zoos and organizations that care for them.
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