Husqvarna announces AI-solution for hedgehog problem
The debate about sufficient animal welfare when it comes to autonomous mowing is loud – at least in Europe. Critics of robotic mowers argue that the machines – whether in the garden or on other green spaces such as golf courses – can injure or even kill small animals, especially if they are not used during the day. The nocturnal hedgehog is symbolic of the debate.
Animals are recognized
Swedish manufacturer Husqvarna, a pioneer in the field of autonomous mowing, has now announced the solution to the problem: AI-supported vision technology with advanced object detection and avoidance capabilities ensures that the robot mower’s camera can distinguish between objects and living creatures and adapt its behaviour “to protect wildlife”. The new function, equipped with state-of-the-art infrared night vision, is set to be introduced for both private gardens and professional green spaces in 2026.
Subscribe to our newsletter!
News & trends about sustainability in golf
In the future, Husqvarna says, the robotic lawnmower will recognize a living creature, such as a hedgehog, then keep a safe distance to return later and continue mowing. “We’ve had a solid object detection system in place for many years, but the camera will set a new benchmark in intelligence,” explains Eric Norling, Director of Product Management at Husqvarna. “For example, it has an infrared night vision mode that is invisible to the human eye but recognizes objects equally well day and night.”
Another decisive factor is that, according to the manufacturer, the night vision mode with infrared light works equally well during the day and at night. This would mean that for golf courses, mowing at night would then also be possible without any problems. Robotic mowers would hardly need to be used during the day.
According to the announcement, Husqvarna will introduce AI-supported Vision Technology in 2026. The Automower 580L EPOS, Automower 580 EPOS and Automower 560 EPOS, which will be launched in 2025, are already prepared for Vision Technology.
