Abstract
Emergence of new technologies in remote sensing give scientists a new way to detect and monitor wildlife populations. In this study we assess the ability to detect and classify two emblematic Arctic cetaceans, the narwhal (Monodon monoceros) and beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas), using very high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery. We analyzed 12 VHR images acquired in August 2017 and 2019, collected by the WorldView-3 satellite, which has a maximum resolution of 0.31 m per pixel. The images covered Clearwater Fiord (138.8 km2), an area on eastern Baffin Island, Canada where belugas spend a large part of the summer, and Tremblay Sound (127.0 km2), a narrow water body located on the north shore of Baffin Island that is used by narwhals during the open water season. A total of 292 beluga whales and 109 narwhals were detected in the images. This study contributes to our understanding of Arctic cetacean distribution and highlights the capabilities of using satellite imagery to detect marine mammals.
Highlights
Emergence of new technologies in remote sensing are pushing forward the fields of ecology and conservation by expanding the range and scale at which researchers can conduct their studies and monitor populations [1,2,3,4]
Our results show that beluga and narwhal individuals can be reliably detected via very high-resolution (VHR) satellite by different observers
To date, no availability bias correction factors exist for these species using VHR satellite imagery to account for whales that are unable to be detected since they are too deep in the water column
Summary
Emergence of new technologies in remote sensing are pushing forward the fields of ecology and conservation by expanding the range and scale at which researchers can conduct their studies and monitor populations [1,2,3,4]. Whether obtained from satellites, airplanes, or remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), can capture demographic information, spatial distribution and habitat selection of animal populations with minimum observer bias [4,5,6,7]. Remote sensing imagery can be collected at any time of the year; and offers a less invasive method for monitoring large mammals [2]. Some important hurdles in advancing population monitoring through remote imagery include: our ability to detect and correctly classify animals from different spatial resolutions, collecting new imagery in remote locations or extreme conditions, and obtaining imagery of animals that move and are distributed across large areas at a resolution that is able to detect animals [4, 8, 9].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
