Handheld thermal imaging devices as important tools in wader fieldwork
Info
Pages
69 – 72
Published
1 April 25
Authors
Tim Oortwijn, James A. Johnson, Zachary M. Pohlen, Jan A. van Gils
DOI
10.18194/ws.00372
Correspondence
Tim Oortwijn
tim.oortwijn@nioz.nl
Department of Coastal Systems, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, PO Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg,
the Netherlands
Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen,
PO Box 11103, 9700 CC Groningen, the Netherlands
Files
Public Files
Thermal imaging technology makes far infrared radiation visible and enables the observation of variations in temperature (e.g. a warm object in a colder environment). Recent advancements in the technology have substantially improved its application for wader fieldwork. Here, we show how handheld thermal imaging devices are helpful for detecting the cryptic nests (from over 100 m) and chicks of Red Knots Calidris canutus and for monitoring during mist-net catches at night. Their use improves efficiency of fieldwork and reduces disturbance.