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JNCC Report 753: Exploring VHR satellite imagery as a tool for monitoring cetaceans around the UK and Overseas 2024

Abstract

This report reviews recent developments in the use of very high resolution (VHR) satellite imagery for monitoring cetacean species, namely larger bodied whales, and trials the technique on several case study areas within UK waters and the Overseas Territories, comparing against verified observations of whale species at the same time and location.

Very high resolution (VHR) satellite imagery offers the potential to compliment traditional methods for monitoring large whale species. The use of these data could compliment other monitoring techniques, helping to cover remote areas, cover large spatial and temporal scales and reduce impacts from disturbance.

This resource may not be fully accessible for all users. If you need a copy in a different or more accessible format, please contact Communications@jncc.gov.uk.

Resource type Publication

Topic category Environment

Reference date 2024·01·01

Citation
Norman, D., Clear, N., Clarke, P., Taylor, N.L. & Banga, R. 2024. Exploring VHR satellite imagery as a tool for monitoring cetaceans around the UK and Overseas. JNCC Report 753, JNCC, Peterborough, ISSN 0963-8091.

Lineage
Specialist expertise was provided by Hannah C. Cubaynes from the British Antarctic Survey. Satellite imagery used in the case studies was accessed via Maxar’s Digital Globe archive. Whale sightings information used for the case studies were accessed from Sea Watch Foundation and the Online Recording Kernow and Scilly websites.

Responsible organisation
Communications, JNCC publisher

Limitations on public access No limitations

Use constraints Available under the Open Government Licence 3.0

Metadata date 2025·02·05

Metadata point of contact
Communications, JNCC

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