JACKSON, Wyo. — The California-based app developer WANDRE recently announced plans to launch a wildlife tracking app for Grand Teton National Park.
HOWLR aims to track the most photogenic of wildlife like moose, bears, wolves and mountain lions, to help users find and photograph the animals.
Users can filter their results by species, and range, so no more hiking or driving for hours for a chance to spot wildlife.
Cal Ainrofilac, the creator of the app, said he was inspired to create the app during a trip to Jackson Hole two summers ago.
“My wife and I drove all over and searched every corner of the internet for tips and tricks on how to spot a moose but did not see a single moose or bear on our trip. When I got home I knew I needed to make a difference so no one else would have to experience what I did,” Ainrofilac told Buckrail.
Ainrofilac says he will be visiting Jackson Hole this May to test out the app before launching it on June 1. He hopes to expand to Yellowstone National Park as well.
The app will have multiple features including a filter for species type, real-time tracking and upvoting for the most photogenic animals.
Users can pin their location and review their experience parking on highways to get out and photograph wildlife. Data will be collected from other users’ reports and GPS data from collared animals when available. Users will also be able to “rate” their experiences with different wildlife and help create a local wildlife leaderboard based on upvotes and ratings.
Ainrofilac said he is working with local wildlife guides, photographers, and enthusiasts to help collect accurate reports and location data. Guides were hesitant to participate at first, fearing the app would negate the need to pay for a wildlife tour, but ultimately decided making wildlife viewing more accessible was worth it.
“There are still advantages to embarking on an official wildlife tour,” said Rus Gavis, a wildlife guide. “We’re trying to expand our offerings to include things like one-on-one wildlife interactions. And we have a reserve of animals that only respond to our call, so that adds value to our tours.”
Elk, deer and moose are a part of HOWLR’s free subscription but users will have to pay more to have access to where the mountain lions, bison, bighorn sheep, wolves and bear cubs roam. Premium subscriptions start at $5.99 for bears, antelope, bison, river otters, and beavers. Platinum memberships will be available for $15.99 and include access to mountain lions, bighorn sheep, wolves, and bear cubs.
“I just want to help people when they are on this once-in-a-lifetime trip to be able to see the wildlife they want,” Ainrofilac said.
Happy April Fool’s Day! Please remember to be extra respectful of wildlife and give them lots of space should you encounter them in the wild.
