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Rahman DA, Herliansyah R, Subhan B, Hutasoit D, Imron MA, Kurniawan DB, Sriyanto T, Wijayanto RD, Fikriansyah MH, Siregar AF, Santoso N. The first use of a photogrammetry drone to estimate population abundance and predict age structure of threatened Sumatran elephants. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21311. [PMID: 38042901 PMCID: PMC10693614 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48635-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife monitoring in tropical rainforests poses additional challenges due to species often being elusive, cryptic, faintly colored, and preferring concealable, or difficult to access habitats. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) prove promising for wildlife surveys in different ecosystems in tropical forests and can be crucial in conserving inaccessible biodiverse areas and their associated species. Traditional surveys that involve infiltrating animal habitats could adversely affect the habits and behavior of elusive and cryptic species in response to human presence. Moreover, collecting data through traditional surveys to simultaneously estimate the abundance and demographic rates of communities of species is often prohibitively time-intensive and expensive. This study assesses the scope of drones to non-invasively access the Bukit Tigapuluh Landscape (BTL) in Riau-Jambi, Indonesia, and detect individual elephants of interest. A rotary-wing quadcopter with a vision-based sensor was tested to estimate the elephant population size and age structure. We developed hierarchical modeling and deep learning CNN to estimate elephant abundance and age structure. Drones successfully observed 96 distinct individuals at 8 locations out of 11 sampling areas. We obtained an estimate of the elephant population of 151 individuals (95% CI [124, 179]) within the study area and predicted more adult animals than subadults and juvenile individuals in the population. Our calculations may serve as a vital spark for innovation for future UAV survey designs in large areas with complex topographies while reducing operational effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dede Aulia Rahman
- Department of Forest Resources Conservation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia.
- Primate Research Center, Institute of Research and Community Service, IPB University, Bogor, 16151, Indonesia.
| | - Riki Herliansyah
- School of Statistics, Kalimantan Institute of Technology, Balikpapan, 76127, Indonesia
- School of Mathematics and Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3FD, UK
| | - Beginer Subhan
- Department of Marine Science and Technology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
| | - Donal Hutasoit
- Jambi Natural Resources Conservation Agency, Jambi, 36361, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Teguh Sriyanto
- Jambi Natural Resources Conservation Agency, Jambi, 36361, Indonesia
| | - Raden Danang Wijayanto
- Tropical Biodiversity Conservation Program, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
- Yogyakarta Natural Resources Conservation Agency, D.I. Yogyakarta, 55514, Indonesia
| | | | - Ahmad Faisal Siregar
- Tropical Biodiversity Conservation Program, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
| | - Nyoto Santoso
- Department of Forest Resources Conservation and Ecotourism, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, IPB University, Bogor, 16680, Indonesia
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2
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Yue Z, Chen J. Direct, indirect, and vicarious nature experiences collectively predict preadolescents' self-reported nature connectedness and conservation behaviors. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15542. [PMID: 37361038 PMCID: PMC10290449 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The quantity and context of children's nature experiences are undergoing significant changes, exacerbating a pervasive negative cycle that could impact future conservation efforts. Therefore, it is essential to conduct further studies on the potential impacts of these changes on children's willingness to engage in conservation practices. Methods We surveyed 2,175 preadolescents (aged 9-12) from rural and city schools in Hangzhou, Kunming, and Xishuangbanna, China, regarding their nature experiences (direct, indirect, and vicarious) and self-reported nature connectedness and conservation behaviors. Results We found that children in urban areas have higher frequencies of indirect and vicarious experiences than those in rural areas, with some direct nature experiences seldom reported among city respondents. Direct, indirect, and vicarious nature experiences significantly predicted children's conservation behavior and collectively provided the highest predictive power for conservation behavior. Direct and vicarious experiences were strongly correlated with pro-nature behavior, and the latter with pro-environmental behavior. Emotional and cognitive connection with nature positively predicted conservation behavior, influenced by location and residence type. Discussion This study reveals that different types of nature experiences shape children's current conservation behaviors in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Yue
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
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3
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Aggarwal S, Gupta P, Mahajan N, Balaji S, Singh KJ, Bhargava B, Panda S. Implementation of drone based delivery of medical supplies in North-East India: experiences, challenges and adopted strategies. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1128886. [PMID: 37333530 PMCID: PMC10275566 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1128886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Timely delivery of medical supplies is essential in the healthcare sector, which is hampered by factors such as poor transportation network, traffic and adverse environmental conditions. Alternatively, drone operations can leapfrog the last mile logistic solutions in hard-to-reach terrains. The present paper elucidates the implementation process of drone-based delivery of medical supplies, operational challenges and innovations adopted by scientists in Manipur and Nagaland. Three districts, Bishnupur, Imphal West and Churachandpur from Manipur and two districts, Mokokchung and Tuensang from Nagaland, were selected for the study. Regulatory and ethical approvals and coordination with state health and administrative authorities were accorded. Implementation and operational challenges faced by the research team were recorded elaborately in the field diaries and assessed qualitatively. The experiences encountered by the team for case-to-case based permission and coordination with the central and state aviation authorities, district administration and health authorities were observed. The drone-related technical and logistic challenges were identified as the deployment of suitable drones, payload capacity, time management for operations, and transportation of drones. The officials adopted mitigation strategies to overcome field-based challenges. Drone-based deliveries of medical supplies are proving to be time efficient, however, overcoming operational challenges could provide an effective long-term deployment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Aggarwal
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India
| | - Prakamya Gupta
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India
| | - Nupur Mahajan
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Balram Bhargava
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India
- Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Samiran Panda
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India
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4
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Walker SE, Sheaves M, Waltham NJ. Barriers to Using UAVs in Conservation and Environmental Management: A Systematic Review. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 71:1052-1064. [PMID: 36525068 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-022-01768-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The ability to adopt novel tools continues to become more important for governments and environmental managers tasked with balancing economic development, social needs and environmental protection. An example of an emerging technology that can enable flexible, cost-effective data collection for conservation and environmental management is Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). It is clear that UAVs are beginning to be adopted for a diversity of purposes, identification of barriers to their use is the first step in increasing their uptake amongst the environmental management community. Identifying the barriers to UAV usage will enable research and management communities to confidently utilise these powerful pieces of technology. However, the implementation of this technology for environmental research has received little overall assessment attention. This systematic literature review has identified 9 barrier categories (namely Technological, Analytical and Processing, Regulatory, Cost, Safety, Social, Wildlife impact, work suitability and others) inhibiting the uptake of UAV technologies. Technological barriers were referenced in the literature most often, with the inability of UAVs to perform in poor weather (such as rain or windy conditions) commonly mentioned. Analytical and Processing and Regulatory barriers were also consistently reported. It is likely that some barriers identified will lessen with time (e.g. technological and analytical barriers) as this technology continues to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Walker
- TropWATER, Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
- Marine Data Technology Hub, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - M Sheaves
- Marine Data Technology Hub, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - N J Waltham
- TropWATER, Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
- Marine Data Technology Hub, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
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5
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Unmanned aerial vehicle surveys reveal unexpectedly high density of a threatened deer in a plantation forestry landscape. ORYX 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605321001058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The Vulnerable marsh deer Blastocerus dichotomus, the largest native cervid in South America, is declining throughout its range as a result of the conversion of wetlands and overhunting. Estimated densities in open wetlands of several types are 0.1–6.8 individuals per km2. We undertook the first unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) survey of the marsh deer to estimate the density of this species in a 113.6 km2 area under forestry management in the lower delta of the Paraná River, Argentina. During 6–8 August 2019, at a time of year when canopy cover is minimal, we surveyed marsh deer using Phantom 4 Pro UAVs along 94 transects totalling 127.8 km and 8.6 km2 (8.1% of the study area). The 5,506 photographs obtained were manually checked by us and by a group of 39 trained volunteers, following a standardized protocol. We detected a total of 58 marsh deer, giving an estimated density of 6.90 individuals per km2 (95% CI 5.26–8.54), which extrapolates to 559–908 individuals in our 113.6 km2 study area. As it has generally been assumed that marsh deer prefer open habitats, this relatively high estimate of density within a forestry plantation matrix is unexpected. We discuss the advantages of using UAVs to survey marsh deer and other related ungulates.
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Young N, Roche DG, Lennox RJ, Bennett JR, Cooke SJ. Ethical ecosurveillance: Mitigating the potential impacts on humans of widespread environmental monitoring. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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7
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Smith W. Understanding the changing role of global public health in biodiversity conservation. AMBIO 2022; 51:485-493. [PMID: 34115346 PMCID: PMC8194382 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01576-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Zoonotic disease emergence has become a core concern of biodiversity conservation amid the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Major international conservation groups now comprehensively center larger human-nature imbalances not only as problems of global public health but as a core challenge of the conservation movement, alongside habitat destruction, biodiversity loss and climate change. There is, however, little consideration of how new biosecurity concerns might alter conservation practice with unexpected and potential harmful impacts on human communities, particularly in developing nations with significant human-wildlife interfaces. Reviewing emerging policy positions from key conservation organizations, this article argues that the proposed responses to the COVID-19 pandemic hold the potential to (a) amplify existing people-park conflicts, and (b) generate new tensions by integrating global systems of viral surveillance into biodiversity conservation. I conclude that the close integration of biosecurity concerns into conservation policies requires greater acknowledgment of the unique challenges for human communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Will Smith
- Alfred Deakin Institute, Deakin University, Building C, Level 1, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
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8
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Winkler AC, Butler EC, Attwood CG, Mann BQ, Potts WM. The emergence of marine recreational drone fishing: Regional trends and emerging concerns. AMBIO 2022; 51:638-651. [PMID: 34145559 PMCID: PMC8800965 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01578-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Online evidence suggests that there has been an increase in interest of using unmanned aerial vehicles or drones during land-based marine recreational fishing. In the absence of reliable monitoring programs, this study used unconventional publicly available online monitoring methodologies to estimate the growing interest, global extent, catch composition and governance of this practice. Results indicated a 357% spike in interest during 2016 primarily in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. From an ecological perspective, many species targeted by drone fishers are vulnerable to overexploitation, while released fishes may experience heightened stress and mortality. From a social perspective, the ethics of drone fishing are being increasingly questioned by many recreational anglers and we forecast the potential for increased conflict with other beach users. In terms of governance, no resource use legislation specifically directed at recreational drone fishing was found. These findings suggest that drone fishing warrants prioritised research and management consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C. Winkler
- Centro de Ciências do Mar (CCMAR), University of the Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Edward C. Butler
- Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Colin G. Attwood
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bruce Q. Mann
- South African Association for Marine Biological Research, Durban, South Africa
| | - Warren M. Potts
- Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
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Kulak V, Longboat S, Brunet ND, Shukla M, Saxena P. In Vitro Technology in Plant Conservation: Relevance to Biocultural Diversity. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11040503. [PMID: 35214833 PMCID: PMC8876341 DOI: 10.3390/plants11040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Plant diversity is critical to the functioning of human societies, and evidence shows that plant conservation success is driven by integrative approaches that include social and biological factors. Plants have a unique capacity to reproduce asexually, and propagation practices can yield large numbers of plantlets. These plantlets can be used in several ways to fulfil conservation goals including the repopulation of regions with declining densities of threatened species that hold cultural meaning. However, the potential of in vitro technologies in the conservation of plants that hold cultural meaning is understudied. In this paper we focus upon the roles of in vitro technologies in the conservation of plants relevant to biocultural environments and provide an overview of potential knowledge gaps at the interface of in vitro and plants used traditionally, including those meaningful to Indigenous Peoples. We conclude that in vitro technologies can be powerful tools in biocultural conservation if they are deployed in a manner respectful of the socio-cultural context in which plants play a role, but that further research is needed in this regard. We suggest several epistemological points to facilitate future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Kulak
- School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (S.L.); (N.D.B.)
| | - Sheri Longboat
- School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (S.L.); (N.D.B.)
| | - Nicolas D. Brunet
- School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (S.L.); (N.D.B.)
| | - Mukund Shukla
- Plant Agriculture Department, Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Praveen Saxena
- Plant Agriculture Department, Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
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10
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Seier G, Hödl C, Abermann J, Schöttl S, Maringer A, Hofstadler DN, Pröbstl-Haider U, Lieb GK. Unmanned aircraft systems for protected areas: Gadgetry or necessity? J Nat Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2021.126078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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11
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Komasová S. Possible Inspiration: Drone-Related Literature and its Potential for Public Perception Research. J INTELL ROBOT SYST 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10846-021-01498-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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12
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Abstract
Drones are increasingly becoming a ubiquitous feature of society. They are being used for a multiplicity of applications for military, leisure, economic, and academic purposes. Their application in academia, especially as social science research tools, has seen a sharp uptake in the last decade. This has been possible due, largely, to significant developments in computerization and miniaturization, which have culminated in safer, cheaper, lighter, and thus more accessible drones for social scientists. Despite their increasingly widespread use, there has not been an adequate reflection on their use in the spatial social sciences. There is need for a deeper reflection on their application in these fields of study. Should the drone even be considered a tool in the toolbox of the social scientist? In which fields is it most relevant? Should it be taught as a course in the social sciences much in the same way that spatially-oriented software packages have become mainstream in institutions of higher learning? What are the ethical implications of its application in spatial social science? This paper is a brief reflection on these questions. We contend that drones are a neutral tool which can be good and evil. They have actual and potentially wide applicability in academia but can be a tool through which breaches in ethics can be occasioned given their unique abilities to capture data from vantage perspectives. Researchers therefore need to be circumspect in how they deploy this powerful tool which is increasingly becoming mainstream in the social sciences.
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Lahoz-Monfort JJ, Magrath MJL. A Comprehensive Overview of Technologies for Species and Habitat Monitoring and Conservation. Bioscience 2021; 71:1038-1062. [PMID: 34616236 PMCID: PMC8490933 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biab073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The range of technologies currently used in biodiversity conservation is staggering, with innovative uses often adopted from other disciplines and being trialed in the field. We provide the first comprehensive overview of the current (2020) landscape of conservation technology, encompassing technologies for monitoring wildlife and habitats, as well as for on-the-ground conservation management (e.g., fighting illegal activities). We cover both established technologies (routinely deployed in conservation, backed by substantial field experience and scientific literature) and novel technologies or technology applications (typically at trial stage, only recently used in conservation), providing examples of conservation applications for both types. We describe technologies that deploy sensors that are fixed or portable, attached to vehicles (terrestrial, aquatic, or airborne) or to animals (biologging), complemented with a section on wildlife tracking. The last two sections cover actuators and computing (including web platforms, algorithms, and artificial intelligence).
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Affiliation(s)
- José J Lahoz-Monfort
- School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael J L Magrath
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria and with the School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Reddy Maddikunta PK, Hakak S, Alazab M, Bhattacharya S, Gadekallu TR, Khan WZ, Pham QV. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Smart Agriculture: Applications, Requirements, and Challenges. IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL 2021; 21:17608-17619. [DOI: 10.1109/jsen.2021.3049471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
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15
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An Evaluation of the Factors Affecting 'Poacher' Detection with Drones and the Efficacy of Machine-Learning for Detection. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21124074. [PMID: 34199208 PMCID: PMC8232034 DOI: 10.3390/s21124074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Drones are being increasingly used in conservation to tackle the illegal poaching of animals. An important aspect of using drones for this purpose is establishing the technological and the environmental factors that increase the chances of success when detecting poachers. Recent studies focused on investigating these factors, and this research builds upon this as well as exploring the efficacy of machine-learning for automated detection. In an experimental setting with voluntary test subjects, various factors were tested for their effect on detection probability: camera type (visible spectrum, RGB, and thermal infrared, TIR), time of day, camera angle, canopy density, and walking/stationary test subjects. The drone footage was analysed both manually by volunteers and through automated detection software. A generalised linear model with a logit link function was used to statistically analyse the data for both types of analysis. The findings concluded that using a TIR camera improved detection probability, particularly at dawn and with a 90° camera angle. An oblique angle was more effective during RGB flights, and walking/stationary test subjects did not influence detection with both cameras. Probability of detection decreased with increasing vegetation cover. Machine-learning software had a successful detection probability of 0.558, however, it produced nearly five times more false positives than manual analysis. Manual analysis, however, produced 2.5 times more false negatives than automated detection. Despite manual analysis producing more true positive detections than automated detection in this study, the automated software gives promising, successful results, and the advantages of automated methods over manual analysis make it a promising tool with the potential to be successfully incorporated into anti-poaching strategies.
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Reconciling Remote Sensing Technologies with Personal Data and Privacy Protection in the European Union: Recent Developments in Greek Legislation and Application Perspectives in Environmental Law. LAWS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/laws10020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Using remote sensing technologies to ensure environmental protection responds to the need of protection of a right and a public good and interest. However, the increasing introduction of these technologies has raised new challenges, such as their interference with the rights of privacy and personal data, which are also protected fundamental rights. In this paper the importance of remote sensing technologies as tools for environmental monitoring and environmental law enforcement is analyzed, while legal issues regarding privacy and data protection from their use for environmental purposes are presented. Existing legislation for reconciling emerging conflicts is also examined and major European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) case law on the issue is approached. Finally, recent developments in Greek legislation and their application perspectives in environmental law are presented as a timely “case study”.
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Sandbrook C, Clark D, Toivonen T, Simlai T, O'Donnell S, Cobbe J, Adams W. Principles for the socially responsible use of conservation monitoring technology and data. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Sandbrook
- Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Douglas Clark
- University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
| | | | - Trishant Simlai
- Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | | | - Jennifer Cobbe
- Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - William Adams
- Department of Geography University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
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Adams KR, Gibbs L, Knott NA, Broad A, Hing M, Taylor MD, Davis AR. Coexisting with sharks: a novel, socially acceptable and non-lethal shark mitigation approach. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17497. [PMID: 33060667 PMCID: PMC7562904 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74270-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Conflict between humans and large predators is a longstanding challenge that can present negative consequences for humans and wildlife. Sharks have a global distribution and are considered to pose a potential threat to humans; concurrently many shark species are themselves threatened. Developing strategies for coexistence between humans and this keystone group is imperative. We assess blimp surveillance as a technique to simply and effectively reduce shark encounters at ocean beaches and determine the social acceptance of this technique as compared to an established mitigation strategy—shark meshing. We demonstrate the suitability of blimps for risk mitigation, with detection probabilities of shark analogues by professional lifeguards of 0.93 in ideal swimming conditions. Social surveys indicate strong social acceptance of blimps and preference for non-lethal shark mitigation. We show that continuous aerial surveillance can provide a measurable reduction in risk from sharks, improving beach safety and facilitating coexistence between people and wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kye R Adams
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
| | - Leah Gibbs
- School of Geography and Sustainable Communities, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Nathan A Knott
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Allison Broad
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Martin Hing
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Matthew D Taylor
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Andrew R Davis
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
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Sah B, Gupta R, Bani-Hani D. Analysis of barriers to implement drone logistics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LOGISTICS-RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/13675567.2020.1782862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bhawesh Sah
- D’amore Mckim School of Business, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rohit Gupta
- Operations Management Area, Indian Institute of Management Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Dana Bani-Hani
- Department of Systems Science and Industrial Engineering, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
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Integrating UAV Technology in an Ecological Monitoring System for Community Wildlife Management Areas in Tanzania. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11216116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have recently emerged as a new remote sensing aerial platform, and they are seemingly advancing real-time data generation. Nonetheless, considerable uncertainties remain in the extent to which wildlife managers can integrate UAVs into ecological monitoring systems for wildlife and their habitats. In this review, we discuss the recent progress and gaps in UAV use in wildlife conservation and management. The review notes that there is scanty information on UAV use in ecological monitoring of medium-to-large mammals found in groups in heterogeneous habitats. We also explore the need and extent to which the technology can be integrated into ecological monitoring systems for mammals in heterogeneous habitats and in topographically-challenging community wildlife-management areas, as a complementary platform to the traditional techniques. Based on its ability to provide high-resolution images in real-time, further experiments on its wider use in the ecological monitoring of wildlife on a spatiotemporal scale are important. The experimentation outputs will make the UAV a very reliable remote sensing platform that addresses the challenges facing conventional techniques.
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Lahoz-Monfort JJ, Chadès I, Davies A, Fegraus E, Game E, Guillera-Arroita G, Harcourt R, Indraswari K, McGowan J, Oliver JL, Refisch J, Rhodes J, Roe P, Rogers A, Ward A, Watson DM, Watson JEM, Wintle BA, Joppa L. A Call for International Leadership and Coordination to Realize the Potential of Conservation Technology. Bioscience 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biz090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractAdvancing technology represents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance our capacity to conserve the Earth's biodiversity. However, this great potential is failing to materialize and rarely endures. We contend that unleashing the power of technology for conservation requires an internationally coordinated strategy that connects the conservation community and policy-makers with technologists. We argue an international conservation technology entity could (1) provide vision and leadership, (2) coordinate and deliver key services necessary to ensure translation from innovation to effective deployment and use of technology for on-the-ground conservation across the planet, and (3) help integrate innovation into biodiversity conservation policy from local to global scales, providing tools to monitor outcomes of conservation action and progress towards national and international biodiversity targets. This proposed entity could take the shape of an international alliance of conservation institutions or a formal intergovernmental institution. Active and targeted uptake of emerging technology can help society achieve biodiversity conservation goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- José J Lahoz-Monfort
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | | | - Alasdair Davies
- Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Fegraus
- 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22202 United Kingdom
| | - Edward Game
- The Nature Conservancy, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | | | - Robert Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Karlina Indraswari
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4066, Australia
| | - Jennifer McGowan
- The Nature Conservancy, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2109, Australia
- Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jessica L Oliver
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4066, Australia
| | - Johannes Refisch
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Great Apes Survival Partnership, UN Environment, P.O. Box 30552, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jonathan Rhodes
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Paul Roe
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4066, Australia
| | - Alex Rogers
- Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Ward
- Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists, 95 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
| | - David M Watson
- Institute for Land, Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW, Australia
| | - James E M Watson
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Global Conservation Program, Bronx NY 10460, United States
| | - Brendan A Wintle
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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Surveying Wild Animals from Satellites, Manned Aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs): A Review. REMOTE SENSING 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/rs11111308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews studies regarding wild animal surveys based on multiple platforms, including satellites, manned aircraft, and unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), and focuses on the data used, animal detection methods, and their accuracies. We also discuss the advantages and limitations of each type of remote sensing data and highlight some new research opportunities and challenges. Submeter very-high-resolution (VHR) spaceborne imagery has potential in modeling the population dynamics of large (>0.6 m) wild animals at large spatial and temporal scales, but has difficulty discerning small (<0.6 m) animals at the species level, although high-resolution commercial satellites, such as WorldView-3 and -4, have been able to collect images with a ground resolution of up to 0.31 m in panchromatic mode. This situation will not change unless the satellite image resolution is greatly improved in the future. Manned aerial surveys have long been employed to capture the centimeter-scale images required for animal censuses over large areas. However, such aerial surveys are costly to implement in small areas and can cause significant disturbances to wild animals because of their noise. In contrast, UAS surveys are seen as a safe, convenient and less expensive alternative to ground-based and conventional manned aerial surveys, but most UASs can cover only small areas. The proposed use of UAS imagery in combination with VHR satellite imagery would produce critical population data for large wild animal species and colonies over large areas. The development of software systems for automatically producing image mosaics and recognizing wild animals will further improve survey efficiency.
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Park S, Lee H, Chon J. Sustainable monitoring coverage of unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry according to wing type and image resolution. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 247:340-348. [PMID: 30690230 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles can collect high-resolution and real-time photos while emitting fewer greenhouse gases than ordinary airplanes and therefore are considered economic and environmentally friendly platforms. However, quantitative analyses of the sustainability of using unmanned aerial vehicles for aerial photography based on their performance and technical constraints compared to that of airplanes are lacking. The purpose of this study is to analyze the economically and environmentally appropriate monitoring coverage of unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry according to wing type (such as fixed-wing and rotary-wing types) and desired image resolution (such as 5 cm/pix and 20 cm/pix for the ground sample distance). To determine the sustainable monitoring coverage, the total photogrammetry costs must include the social cost to reduce the emitted greenhouse gases during operation, resulting in a feedback relation. As a result, the sustainable monitoring coverage of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles should be less than 27.50 km2 when the resolution is 5 cm/pix and 30.64 km2 when the resolution is 20 cm/pix. Rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles are sustainable when their monitoring coverage is less than 23.98 km2 at a resolution of 5 cm/pix and 26.75 km2 at a resolution of 20 cm/pix. These results provide information on the number of unmanned aerial vehicles and the standing unmanned aerial vehicle deployment plans required to monitor the survey area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Park
- Department of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hemin Lee
- Department of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhyung Chon
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Duffy R, Massé F, Smidt E, Marijnen E, Büscher B, Verweijen J, Ramutsindela M, Simlai T, Joanny L, Lunstrum E. Why we must question the militarisation of conservation. BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION 2019; 232:66-73. [PMID: 31007267 PMCID: PMC6472544 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2019.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Concerns about poaching and trafficking have led conservationists to seek urgent responses to tackle the impact on wildlife. One possible solution is the militarisation of conservation, which holds potentially far-reaching consequences. It is important to engage critically with the militarisation of conservation, including identifying and reflecting on the problems it produces for wildlife, for people living with wildlife and for those tasked with implementing militarised strategies. This Perspectives piece is a first step towards synthesising the main themes in emerging critiques of militarised conservation. We identify five major themes: first, the importance of understanding how poaching is defined; second, understanding the ways that local communities experience militarised conservation; third, the experiences of rangers; fourth, how the militarisation of conservation can contribute to violence where conservation operates in the context of armed conflict; and finally how it fits in with and reflects wider political economic dynamics. Ultimately, we suggest that failure to engage more critically with militarisation risks making things worse for the people involved and lead to poor conservation outcomes in the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaleen Duffy
- University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author at: The Department of Politics, University of Sheffield, Elmfield, Northumberland Road, Sheffield S10 2TU, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Emile Smidt
- Institute of Social Studies, The Hague, Netherlands
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Murgatroyd M, Redpath SM, Murphy SG, Douglas DJT, Saunders R, Amar A. Patterns of satellite tagged hen harrier disappearances suggest widespread illegal killing on British grouse moors. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1094. [PMID: 30890695 PMCID: PMC6424969 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09044-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying patterns of wildlife crime is a major conservation challenge. Here, we test whether deaths or disappearances of a protected species, the hen harrier, are associated with grouse moors, which are areas managed for the production of red grouse for recreational shooting. Using data from 58 satellite tracked hen harriers, we show high rates of unexpected tag failure and low first year survival compared to other harrier populations. The likelihood of harriers dying or disappearing increased as their use of grouse moors increased. Similarly, at the landscape scale, satellite fixes from the last week of life were distributed disproportionately on grouse moors in comparison to the overall use of such areas. This pattern was also apparent in protected areas in northern England. We conclude that hen harriers in Britain suffer elevated levels of mortality on grouse moors, which is most likely the result of illegal killing. Tackling wildlife crimes requires determining their occurrence and distribution, but they are often difficult to detect. Here, the authors use hen harrier tracking data to show patterns of unexpected tag failure that suggest widespread illegal killing on moors managed for recreational shooting of red grouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Murgatroyd
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701, South Africa.
| | - Stephen M Redpath
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701, South Africa. .,School of Biological Sciences, Zoology Building, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK.
| | - Stephen G Murphy
- Natural England, Dragonfly House, 2 Gilders Way, Norwich, NR3 1UB, UK
| | - David J T Douglas
- RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, RSPB Scotland, 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh, EH12 9DH, UK
| | - Richard Saunders
- Natural England, Dragonfly House, 2 Gilders Way, Norwich, NR3 1UB, UK
| | - Arjun Amar
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701, South Africa.
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Bennitt E, Bartlam-Brooks HLA, Hubel TY, Wilson AM. Terrestrial mammalian wildlife responses to Unmanned Aerial Systems approaches. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2142. [PMID: 30765800 PMCID: PMC6375938 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-38610-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are increasingly being used recreationally, commercially and for wildlife research, but very few studies have quantified terrestrial mammalian reactions to UAS approaches. We used two Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) UAS to approach seven herbivore species in the Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana, after securing the relevant permissions. We recorded responses to 103 vertical and 120 horizontal approaches, the latter from three altitudes above ground level (AGL). We ran mixed logistic regressions to identify factors triggering (i) any response and (ii) an evasive response. We included effects of activity, altitude, direction of approach, distance, habitat, herd type, herd size, other species, target species, time, VTOL type and wind strength. Response triggers were linked to altitude, distance, habitat and target species. Elephant (Loxodonta africana), giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis), wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) and zebra (Equus quagga) were most affected by VTOL approach, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and lechwe (Kobus leche) were least responsive, and tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus) displayed intermediate sensitivity. VTOLs flown lower than 60 m AGL and closer than 100 m horizontal distance from target animals triggered behavioural responses in most species. Enforced regulations on recreational UAS use in wildlife areas are necessary to minimise disturbance to terrestrial mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Bennitt
- Okavango Research Institute, University of Botswana, Maun, Botswana.
| | - Hattie L A Bartlam-Brooks
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tatjana Y Hubel
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan M Wilson
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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27
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Bertacchi A, Giannini V, Di Franco C, Silvestri N. Using unmanned aerial vehicles for vegetation mapping and identification of botanical species in wetlands. LANDSCAPE AND ECOLOGICAL ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11355-018-00368-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
Park managers call for cost-effective and innovative solutions to handle a wide variety of environmental problems that threaten biodiversity in protected areas. Recently, drones have been called upon to revolutionize conservation and hold great potential to evolve and raise better-informed decisions to assist management. Despite great expectations, the benefits that drones could bring to foster effectiveness remain fundamentally unexplored. To address this gap, we performed a literature review about the use of drones in conservation. We selected a total of 256 studies, of which 99 were carried out in protected areas. We classified the studies in five distinct areas of applications: “wildlife monitoring and management”; “ecosystem monitoring”; “law enforcement”; “ecotourism”; and “environmental management and disaster response”. We also identified specific gaps and challenges that would allow for the expansion of critical research or monitoring. Our results support the evidence that drones hold merits to serve conservation actions and reinforce effective management, but multidisciplinary research must resolve the operational and analytical shortcomings that undermine the prospects for drones integration in protected areas.
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Abstract
The use of unoccupied aircraft systems (UASs, also known as drones) in science is growing rapidly. Recent advances in microelectronics and battery technology have resulted in the rapid development of low-cost UASs that are transforming many industries. Drones are poised to revolutionize marine science and conservation, as they provide essentially on-demand remote sensing capabilities at low cost and with reduced human risk. A variety of multirotor, fixed-wing, and transitional UAS platforms are capable of carrying various optical and physical sampling payloads and are being employed in almost every subdiscipline of marine science and conservation. This article provides an overview of the UAS platforms and sensors used in marine science and conservation missions along with example physical, biological, and natural resource management applications and typical analytical workflows. It concludes with details on potential effects of UASs on marine wildlife and a look to the future of UASs in marine science and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Johnston
- Marine Robotics and Remote Sensing Lab, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, USA;
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Alfaro-Saiz E, Granda V, Rodríguez A, Alonso-Redondo R, García-González ME. Optimal census method to estimate population sizes of species growing on rock walls: The case of mature Primula pedemontana. Glob Ecol Conserv 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2019.e00563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Peckham R, Sinha R. Anarchitectures of health: Futures for the biomedical drone. Glob Public Health 2018; 14:1204-1219. [DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2018.1546335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Peckham
- Centre for the Humanities and Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ria Sinha
- Centre for the Humanities and Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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UAV Remote Sensing for Biodiversity Monitoring: Are Forest Canopy Gaps Good Covariates? REMOTE SENSING 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/rs10091397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Forest canopy gaps are important to ecosystem dynamics. Depending on tree species, small canopy openings may be associated with intra-crown porosity and with space among crowns. Yet, literature on the relationships between very fine-scaled patterns of canopy openings and biodiversity features is limited. This research explores the possibility of: (1) mapping forest canopy gaps from a very high spatial resolution orthomosaic (10 cm), processed from a versatile unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imaging platform, and (2) deriving patch metrics that can be tested as covariates of variables of interest for forest biodiversity monitoring. The orthomosaic was imaged from a test area of 240 ha of temperate deciduous forest types in Central Italy, containing 50 forest inventory plots each of 529 m2 in size. Correlation and linear regression techniques were used to explore relationships between patch metrics and understory (density, development, and species diversity) or forest habitat biodiversity variables (density of micro-habitat bearing trees, vertical species profile, and tree species diversity). The results revealed that small openings in the canopy cover (75% smaller than 7 m2) can be faithfully extracted from UAV red, green, and blue bands (RGB) imagery, using the red band and contrast split segmentation. The strongest correlations were observed in the mixed forests (beech and turkey oak) followed by intermediate correlations in turkey oak forests, followed by the weakest correlations in beech forests. Moderate to strong linear relationships were found between gap metrics and understory variables in mixed forest types, with adjusted R2 from linear regression ranging from 0.52 to 0.87. Equally strong correlations in the same forest types were observed for forest habitat biodiversity variables (with adjusted R2 ranging from 0.52 to 0.79), with highest values found for density of trees with microhabitats and vertical species profile. In conclusion, this research highlights that UAV remote sensing can potentially provide covariate surfaces of variables of interest for forest biodiversity monitoring, conventionally collected in forest inventory plots. By integrating the two sources of data, these variables can be mapped over small forest areas with satisfactory levels of accuracy, at a much higher spatial resolution than would be possible by field-based forest inventory solely.
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Fu Y, Kinniry M, Kloepper LN. The Chirocopter: A UAV for recording sound and video of bats at altitude. Methods Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.12992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Fu
- Department of Biology Saint Mary's College Notre Dame IN USA
| | - Morgan Kinniry
- Department of Biology Saint Mary's College Notre Dame IN USA
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Evaluating the Societal Impact of Using Drones to Support Urban Upgrading Projects. ISPRS INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GEO-INFORMATION 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/ijgi7030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, have been gaining enormous popularity for many applications including informal settlement upgrading. Although UAVs can be used to efficiently collect highly detailed geospatial information, there are concerns regarding the ethical implications of its usage and the potential misuse of data. The aim of this study is therefore to evaluate the societal impacts of using UAVs for informal settlement mapping through two case studies in Eastern Africa. We discuss how the geospatial information they provide is beneficial from a technical perspective and analyze how the use of UAVs can be aligned with the values of: participation, empowerment, accountability, transparency, and equity. The local concept of privacy is investigated by asking citizens of the informal settlements to identify objects appearing in UAV images which they consider to be sensitive or private. As such, our research is an explicit example of how to increase citizen participation in the discussion of geospatial data security and privacy issues over urban areas and provides a framework of strategies illustrating how such issues can be addressed.
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Rees AF, Avens L, Ballorain K, Bevan E, Broderick AC, Carthy RR, Christianen MJA, Duclos G, Heithaus MR, Johnston DW, Mangel JC, Paladino F, Pendoley K, Reina RD, Robinson NJ, Ryan R, Sykora-Bodie ST, Tilley D, Varela MR, Whitman ER, Whittock PA, Wibbels T, Godley BJ. The potential of unmanned aerial systems for sea turtle research and conservation: a review and future directions. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2018. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Widness J, Aronsen GP. Camera trap data on mammal presence, behaviour and poaching: A case study from Mainaro, Kibale National Park, Uganda. Afr J Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Widness
- Department of Anthropology; Yale University; New Haven CT USA
| | - Gary P. Aronsen
- Department of Anthropology; Yale University; New Haven CT USA
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Markowitz EM, Nisbet MC, Danylchuk AJ, Engelbourg SI. What's That Buzzing Noise? Public Opinion on the Use of Drones for Conservation Science. Bioscience 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/bix003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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41
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Biggs D, Cooney R, Roe D, Dublin HT, Allan JR, Challender DWS, Skinner D. Developing a theory of change for a community-based response to illegal wildlife trade. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2017; 31:5-12. [PMID: 27411900 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The escalating illegal wildlife trade (IWT) is one of the most high-profile conservation challenges today. The crisis has attracted over US$350 million in donor and government funding in recent years, primarily directed at increased enforcement. There is growing recognition among practitioners and policy makers of the need to engage rural communities that neighbor or live with wildlife as key partners in tackling IWT. However, a framework to guide such community engagement is lacking. We developed a theory of change (ToC) to guide policy makers, donors, and practitioners in partnering with communities to combat IWT. We identified 4 pathways for community-level actions: strengthen disincentives for illegal behavior, increase incentives for wildlife stewardship, decrease costs of living with wildlife, and support livelihoods that are not related to wildlife. To succeed the pathways, all require strengthening of enabling conditions, including capacity building, and of governance. Our ToC serves to guide actions to tackle IWT and to inform the evaluation of policies. Moreover, it can be used to foster dialogue among IWT stakeholders, from local communities to governments and international donors, to develop a more effective, holistic, and sustainable community-based response to the IWT crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duan Biggs
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan QLD, 4111, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, Centre for Biodiversity & Conservation Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
- IUCN CEESP/SSC Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, c/ IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, CH-1196, Switzerland
| | - Rosie Cooney
- IUCN CEESP/SSC Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, c/ IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, CH-1196, Switzerland
- Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Dilys Roe
- IUCN CEESP/SSC Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, c/ IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, CH-1196, Switzerland
- International Institute for Environment and Development, 80-86 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8NH, U.K
| | - Holly T Dublin
- IUCN CEESP/SSC Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, c/ IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, CH-1196, Switzerland
- IUCN SSC African Elephant Specialist Group, c/o IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, P.O. Box 68200, Nairobi, 00200, Kenya
| | - James R Allan
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, Centre for Biodiversity & Conservation Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- School of Geography, Planning and Environmental Management, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Dan W S Challender
- IUCN CEESP/SSC Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, c/ IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, CH-1196, Switzerland
- IUCN Species Programme, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, U.K
| | - Diane Skinner
- IUCN SSC African Elephant Specialist Group, c/o IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, P.O. Box 68200, Nairobi, 00200, Kenya
- Independent Consultancy, P.O. Box MP113, Mt. Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Kumar
- Department of Computer Science and EngineeringIndian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University)Varanasi221005India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Singh
- Department of Computer Science and EngineeringIndian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University)Varanasi221005India
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Duffy R, St John FAV, Büscher B, Brockington D. Toward a new understanding of the links between poverty and illegal wildlife hunting. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2016; 30:14-22. [PMID: 26332105 PMCID: PMC5006885 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Conservation organizations have increasingly raised concerns about escalating rates of illegal hunting and trade in wildlife. Previous studies have concluded that people hunt illegally because they are financially poor or lack alternative livelihood strategies. However, there has been little attempt to develop a richer understanding of the motivations behind contemporary illegal wildlife hunting. As a first step, we reviewed the academic and policy literatures on poaching and illegal wildlife use and considered the meanings of poverty and the relative importance of structure and individual agency. We placed motivations for illegal wildlife hunting within the context of the complex history of how wildlife laws were initially designed and enforced to indicate how hunting practices by specific communities were criminalized. We also considered the nature of poverty and the reasons for economic deprivation in particular communities to indicate how particular understandings of poverty as material deprivation ultimately shape approaches to illegal wildlife hunting. We found there is a need for a much better understanding of what poverty is and what motivates people to hunt illegally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaleen Duffy
- Department of Development Studies, SOAS, University of London, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1H 0XG, United Kingdom.
| | - Freya A V St John
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NR, United Kingdom
| | - Bram Büscher
- Sociology of Development and Change Group, Wageningen University, Hollandsweg, 1 6706KN, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dan Brockington
- Institute for Development Policy and Management, School of Environment, Education and Development, The University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Apps are small task-orientated programs with the potential to integrate the computational and sensing capacities of smartphones with the power of cloud computing, social networking, and crowdsourcing. They have the potential to transform how humans interact with nature, cause a step change in the quantity and resolution of biodiversity data, democratize access to environmental knowledge, and reinvigorate ways of enjoying nature. To assess the extent to which this potential is being exploited in relation to nature, we conducted an automated search of the Google Play Store using 96 nature-related terms. This returned data on ~36 304 apps, of which ~6301 were nature-themed. We found that few of these fully exploit the full range of capabilities inherent in the technology and/or have successfully captured the public imagination. Such breakthroughs will only be achieved by increasing the frequency and quality of collaboration between environmental scientists, information engineers, computer scientists, and interested publics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Jepson
- School of Geography and the Environment, Oxford University, Oxford, UK.
| | - Richard J Ladle
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, AL, Brazil
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Affiliation(s)
- René van der Wal
- Aberdeen Centre for Environmental Sustainability (ACES), School of Biological Sciences, Auris, University of Aberdeen, 23 St. Machar Drive, Aberdeen, AB24 3UU, UK.
| | - Koen Arts
- Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6700 AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
- Centro de Pesquisa do Pantanal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, CEP: 78.068-360, Brazil.
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Abstract
Digital technology is changing nature conservation in increasingly profound ways. We describe this impact and its significance through the concept of 'digital conservation', which we found to comprise five pivotal dimensions: data on nature, data on people, data integration and analysis, communication and experience, and participatory governance. Examining digital innovation in nature conservation and addressing how its development, implementation and diffusion may be steered, we warn against hypes, techno-fix thinking, good news narratives and unverified assumptions. We identify a need for rigorous evaluation, more comprehensive consideration of social exclusion, frameworks for regulation and increased multi-sector as well as multi-discipline awareness and cooperation. Along the way, digital technology may best be reconceptualised by conservationists from something that is either good or bad, to a dual-faced force in need of guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen Arts
- Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6700 AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
- Centro de Pesquisa do Pantanal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, CEP: 78.068-360, Brazil.
| | - René van der Wal
- Aberdeen Centre for Environmental Sustainability (ACES), School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UU, UK
| | - William M Adams
- Department of Geography, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge, CB2 3EN, UK
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