Applications of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Forest Resources and Wildlife Monitoring

To enhance monitoring capabilities in mountainous and remote areas, this Branch has deployed rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for detailed low-altitude imaging. These UAVs feature vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and precise hovering capabilities, making them particularly suitable for operations in complex terrain. Equipped with optical sensors and thermal cameras, they are used in conservation tasks such as documenting forest conditions, monitoring forest fires, surveying wildlife habitats, and detecting invasive species. With characteristics of low disturbance, high mobility, and high-resolution imaging, the UAVs significantly improve data quality and operational efficiency. They have already been applied in multiple forest areas and coastal conservation sites, effectively supporting natural resource management and conservation efforts.

Thermal UAV imagery of Formosan sambar deer

Post-processed thermal imagery analysis of green iguanas

UAV imagery results from Danongdafu Forest Park, Guangfu Township, Hualien

UAV imagery results from Asiatic sand sedge nesting site, Longmen Beach, Gongliao District, New Taipei City