Drone-based tracking of the fine-scale movement of a coastal stingray (Bathytoshia brevicaudata)

Abstract

Coastal ecosystems are under threat from a range of anthropogenic impacts that disrupt habitat connectivity and the ability for animals to move within them. Understanding fine-scale animal movement provides insight into how animals are responding to these pressures, and underpins effective ecological management and conservation strategies. This study used drones to investigate the drivers of the fine-scale movement of rays in coastal estuaries using the short-tail stingray (Bathytoshia brevicaudata) as a model species. Smaller rays swam with more regular bursts of speed and greater sinuosity than larger individuals, indicating that rays of different sizes alter their fine-scale movement behavior to maintain energetic efficiency. Rays were less likely to spend time resting and swam faster on the high tide compared to the outgoing tide. They were also more likely to exhibit bursts of speed at noon (11 am to 1 pm) than at other times of day. Body size, tide and time of day all influenced ray movement. Understanding the ecological variables that influence the fine-scale movement of rays and the potential for human activities to alter natural behaviors is integral to the implementation of effective management strategies for this group of animals and their ecosystems.