A manual for monitoring wild boars (Sus scrofa) using thermal infrared cameras mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)

Abstract

This study proposes monitoring methods of wild boars in plains or mountain forest areas using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with infrared cameras. It is recommended to monitor in winter when the canopy layer is thin and the temperature difference between the ambient temperature and the body temperature of the wild boar is distinct, so that the infrared camera can better detect the wild boars. In flat land, the plane movement of the UAV can be easily monitored using the line transect, the point count survey, the plot sampling method, and the belted transect. In the mountain forest, there are variations in elevation due to slopes. Therefore, we introduced the WAYPOINT function to reflect the difference in altitude. After the investigator designates the waypoint, various information can be modified according to the terrain, and the WAYPOINT can be transmitted to other UAVs, so the utilization is high. In this method, once a route is created using the WAYPOINT, there is no need for additional operation after the start of the flight, and it helps to re-monitor the site by using the WAYPOINT record repeatedly. Therefore, this technical note provides a more repeatedly sustainable and scalable monitoring method than the conventional UAV method.