Application of remote sensing methods for monitoring wild life populations: a review

Abstract

This publication is a review of the application of remote sensing methods for wildlife population monitoring in zoology. Remote sensing methods are divided into four categories. The first category of methods examines the application of camera traps, the second is about application of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), the third category examines the application of satellite images, and the fourth category is summarizing studies focused on GPS tracking. The use of camera traps for monitoring wild life populations proved to be a very applicable and reliable field method for collecting appropriate data on large mammals. Monitoring animal populations through satellites is a method that allows many biogeographic hypotheses related to migration and species distribution. Data obtained from satellite platforms is used as an indirect method in zoology to assess the habitats and food base of animals, as well as to create models of species distribution. Images obtained from UAVs are a new method for conducting studies of wildlife populations, showing greater accuracy and efficiency than conventional methods. GPS tracking is an extremely suitable method used to identify breeding and wintering sites, migration routes, and resting places of many species of migratory birds and mammals. The literature review shows that monitoring animal populations through remote sensing methods are cost and time effective methods that can be successfully performed without exposing researchers to risk. It allows monitoring of difficult-to-access places and large territories as well as to create models of species distribution.