Aerial photogrammetry within the Coral Sea Marine Park aims to prioritise the assessment and monitoring of bird populations, including seabirds and shorebirds primarily for remote surveillance for the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or H5 bird flu. The surveys capture high-resolution imagery which can also be used to evaluate turtle tracks from nesting turtles, vegetation health, distribution, and changes, as well as island geomorphology, encompassing beach profiles, dune systems, and broader landform dynamics.
This initiative aims to provide critical insights into biodiversity patterns and trends and to identify presence or impacts of H5 Bird Flu on bird populations across the vast Coral Sea Marine Park. By delivering comprehensive, precise, and actionable data, the project will support Parks Australia in monitoring and conserving the unique ecosystems of the Coral Sea Marine Park. AeroGlobe have developed a technically advanced airbourne camera platform and AI to identify dead birds as well as identify and count live birds to species level.