Amanda Griswold, a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's College of Natural Resources, is pioneering the use of drones equipped with thermal cameras to enhance waterfowl conservation efforts. Her research, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Ben Sedinger, aims to improve monitoring techniques for waterfowl populations and habitat protection.
Sedinger, who holds the Kennedy-Grohne Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation, has been instrumental in mentoring Griswold throughout her project. The research received financial support from a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources grant, along with contributions from the Wisconsin Waterfowl Hunters Expo, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, and Ducks Unlimited's David R. Luukkonen Waterfowl and Wetland Graduate Student Fellowship.
Traditional methods for surveying waterfowl have relied on aerial flights and ground observations, which often fail to detect all birds in surveyed areas. However, Griswold's two-year study demonstrates that drones can significantly improve detection rates.
The research team utilized drones to survey various wetland habitats. These drones were equipped with thermal imaging technology that successfully identified birds in challenging areas for traditional surveys. By operating at heights that minimize disturbance, the drones allowed natural bird behaviors to remain unaffected during data collection.
"Our findings show that drones are a reliable and efficient tool for monitoring breeding waterfowl populations," Griswold stated. "They improve detection rates while reducing the need for time-intensive ground surveys."
This advancement provides critical data on waterfowl populations and habitat usage, enabling conservationists to prioritize restoration efforts more effectively. Identifying key breeding areas or critical habitats allows resources to be allocated efficiently to ensure species survival. Additionally, drone surveys reduce labor costs and enable more frequent assessments, helping managers address issues like habitat degradation or climate change impacts promptly.
Sedinger emphasized the project's collaborative nature and its potential impact: "This research combines advanced technology with ecological expertise to address real-world conservation challenges," he said. "Drones give us the ability to observe waterfowl in ways we couldn’t before, allowing for more precise conservation strategies. It’s an exciting step forward for waterfowl and wetland conservation."
As wildlife faces threats from habitat loss and climate change, innovative tools like those developed by Griswold offer hope for effective restoration efforts in Wisconsin's wetlands.
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