Use of small unmanned aerial systems for sharp-tailed grouse lek surveys

Alexander C Rischette,Benjamin A Geaumont,Torre J Hovick,R Dwayne Elmore

doi:10.2981/wlb.00679

Alexander C Rischette, Benjamin A Geaumont + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.2981/wlb.00679

Copy DOI

Abstract

Manned, aerial surveys are an important tool for wildlife managers, but they are dangerous to conduct, expensive and difficult to replicate. Interest is increasing in using small unmanned aerial systems [sUAS] due to concerns associated with traditional manned, aerial surveys. To assess the potential of sUAS technology for grouse lek surveys, we examined the behavioral response of sharp-tailed grouse Tympanucus phasianellus to a quadcopter sUAS platform in the Northern Great Plains. We conducted 43 surveys at 19 leks between 9 April and 3 May in 2018 and 2019. We found altitude and wind speed were informative at explaining the behavioral response of grouse following sUAS exposure. We observed an increase in flush responses during low altitude surveys (≤30 m above ground level) during periods of low to high wind speeds. In contrast, flush responses were mitigated when survey altitude increased to 121 m above ground level with moderate wind speeds. Further investigation into sUAS for lek surveys should explore altitudes >121 m above ground level, using more advanced sUAS platforms.

Highlights

BioOne Complete is a full-text database of 200 subscribed and open-access titles in the biological, ecological, and environmental sciences published by nonprofit societies, associations, museums, institutions, and presses
To assess the potential of sUAS technology for grouse lek surveys, we examined the behavioral response of sharp-tailed grouse Tympanucus phasianellus to a quadcopter sUAS platform in the Northern Great Plains
Post-survey observations noted that of 14 leks that scored total disruption, eight had birds returning to leks within an average of 4.4 min ± 1.0, one had birds return while the sUAS was still in flight, and five had no birds return during the sampling period

Summary

Introduction

BioOne Complete (complete.BioOne.org) is a full-text database of 200 subscribed and open-access titles in the biological, ecological, and environmental sciences published by nonprofit societies, associations, museums, institutions, and presses. Your use of this PDF, the BioOne Complete website, and all posted and associated content indicates your acceptance of BioOne’s Terms of Use, available at www.bioone.org/terms-of-use. We observed an increase in flush responses during low altitude surveys (≤30 m above ground level) during periods of low to high wind speeds. Aerial surveys can provide more precise population information than ground based surveys (Schroeder et al 1992), but a major problem with manned, aerial surveys is the associated risk to observers. The license permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Methods

Results

Conclusion