Abstract
Remote sensing is a method that collects data of the Earth's surface without causing disturbances. Thus, it is worthwhile to use remote sensing methods to survey endangered ecosystems, as the studied species will behave naturally while undisturbed. The latest passive optical remote sensing solutions permit surveys from long distances. State-of-the-art highly sensitive sensor systems allow high spatial resolution image acquisition at high altitudes and at high flying speeds, even in low-visibility conditions. As the aerial imagery captured by an airplane covers the entire study area, all the animals present in that area can be recorded. A population assessment is conducted by visual interpretations of an ortho image map. The basic objective of this study is to determine whether small- and medium-sized bird species are recognizable in the ortho images by using high spatial resolution aerial cameras. The spatial resolution needed for identifying the bird species in the ortho image map was studied. The survey was adjusted to determine the number of birds in a colony at a given time.
Highlights
Introduction and Testing of aMonitoring and Colony-Mapping
The novelty of our method is the combination of high-speed and high-resolution remote sensing and photogrammetry for bird observation with a new high-speed aerial camera, which enables improved spatial resolution, higher flight altitudes, operation in low light conditions and faster surveys
We developed a calibrated digital aerial camera with a rarely achieved high spatial resolution for surveying the nests of waterfowl
Summary
Introduction and Testing of aMonitoring and Colony-Mapping. Today, aerial remote sensing surveys are becoming more popular as they can be used to monitor animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them. Orthophoto maps are created by the aerial images in which individual birds of different species are identified. It is important to eliminate the possibility of double counting between flight lines of even the most mobile animals; this risk is reduced by the use of high flying speeds and appropriate flight mission planning. In this way, the vegetation and the land cover of the habitat can be mapped, the number of individual birds of the colonies can be counted and the behavior of individual birds can be noted and analyzed. Spatial aspects of the information obtained are assured by the use of photogrammetry, direct georeferencing and further image processing methods [4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call