Innovative approaches of Conservation Status of Nature Values in the Baltic Sea (Acronym - MARMONI) LIFE09 NAT/LV/000238
During the last decade, digital imaging and automation of object-based image analysis techniques have successfully shown their ability to estimate the numbers and distribution of marine birds. The studies show considerable differences exist between digital imaging and ground truth data. We are working towards developing automated recognition and identification of bird species in the Baltic Sea.
1.image. A thermal image showing churned up water (dark lines) which follows the path of sea birds (white dots) swimming.
The Aim
To test aerial digital imaging as a method for estimating numbers and distribution of marine birds in the Baltic Sea.
Our Role
We tested remote sensing technologies’ – a high resolution RGB and hyperspectral sensors, ability to identify and count marine birds in the Baltic Sea. We organized several aerial image acquisition campaigns in 2011, 2012 and 2014, that were combined with visual counting flights on the same routes.
Results
The identification of sea-birds was possible through hyperspectral sensors. The current accuracy of bird recognition from high resolution RGB camera and thermal sensors is at a 70 – 80% level. We recognized species such as Herring Gull (Larus argentatus), that was most often captured flying above sea surface and the Long-tailed duck (Clangula hyemalis). We are working towards improving data acquisition using remote sensing technologies for improved performance.
2.image. Comparison between photo (left, by A. Auniņš) and RGB image (right) showing the Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) in flight.
3. image. A pair and small flock of Long-tailed Ducks (Clangula hyemalis) in flight (left, photo by A.Auniņš) and high resolution aerial image of a flock of Long-tailed Ducks in water (right).
Project duration: 01.10.2010 – 31.03.2015
Project Manager: Gatis Eriņš
The project is financed by: European Union LIFE+ Nature and Biodiversity Programme
Beneficiary:
Coordinating Beneficiary: Baltic Environmental Forum – Latvia
Associated Beneficiary: Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Latvian Fund of Nature, Nature Conservation Agency, Baltic Environmental Forum – Estonia, Estonian Marine Institute, Finnish Environment Institute, Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute, Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, Aqua Biota Water Research, Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.
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