Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have emerged as valuable tools for wildlife monitoring, offering potentially non-intrusive observations in challenging terrains like marine ecosystems. Despite their potential, widespread use is impeded by regulatory constraints, especially in protected areas.
This study aims to assess the impact of varying flight altitudes and flight approaches of two commercial drones on the behaviour of harbour seals (
We found varying responses, where species-specific sensitivity and environmental conditions appeared to influence the behavioural reactions of the seals. Our results reveal that seal reactions to drones are complex and depend on several factors, such as flight altitude, drone model, received noise levels, approach, weather conditions, the animals’ annual cycle, and geographic location.
The outcomes hold significance for refining regulatory policies governing drone flights in protected marine environments, balancing conservation efforts with technological advancements in wildlife monitoring and ensuring undisturbed observations of seals.