Researchers Use Drones to Study Sea Turtles in a Variety of Ways

by · February 16, 2026

A female green sea turtle heads back to the ocean after laying her nest.

For many years, researchers have used drones in numerous ways to study sea turtles. Aerial surveys of offshore breeding areas and nesting beaches collect important population data (e.g., number of nesting females and nests). Using photogrammetry, they can accurately measure the size of sea turtles to learn which age groups are gathered in a specific area at certain times and to analyze nesting beaches to create 3D models.

A recent study by Florida Atlantic University researchers in Boca Raton focused on what factors – both environmental and human-made – affect nest site selection by female loggerheads. In addition to using drone photogrammetry to create maps and 3D models of the nesting beaches, the research team conducted on-the-ground GPS surveys; analyzed beach slope, sand texture, and proximity to human-made structures (e.g., dune crossovers); and used statistical analysis to identify the most influential factors. Their analysis revealed that beach slope and proximity to structures were the most important factors. They discovered that the loggerheads were more likely to successfully complete their nests on steeper parts of the beach and farther from dune crossovers, and they would false crawl more commonly closer to structures and on flatter areas. The researchers hope the results of their study will be used for coastal development decisions in the future.

Another study by sea turtle scientists in Costa Rica used drones equipped with thermal infrared sensors to conduct nighttime studies of Piro Beach. They were able to identify specific species of sea turtles, observe other wildlife such as predators of hatchlings, and even monitor for human poaching activities. Compared to their traditional daytime beach patrols, the thermal images detected additional sea turtle nesting activity.

Other high-tech developments for drones include an algorithm that utilizes light wavelengths that transmit through water and can be used to create detailed underwater maps. Also, hyperspectral imagery could be used to analyze beach vegetation and its impact on sea turtle nesting.

Despite the vast array of capabilities, drones do have limitations. These include laws restricting their flight in certain areas, bad weather preventing their use, the high cost of advanced sensors (e.g., thermal infrared sensors), expensive processing software licenses, and the large amounts of data and imagery that they collect require processing and storage. Hopefully, with future technological advances, drones may become less expensive and more accessible to a larger number of researchers.

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