Wildlife Management Gets Boost With Revolutionary Thermal Drones

Thermal Drones Revolutionize Wildlife Management with Unparalleled Search Capabilities

A breakthrough in wildlife management is sending shockwaves through the community, as thermal drones are being hailed as a game-changer for deer recovery and herd management. According to data from North American White Tail, an astonishing 70 percent of deer located by these cutting-edge drones are found alive during recovery operations.

The technology has proven itself to be an indispensable tool in wildlife management, particularly through the efforts of Justin Updyke, operator of Virginia-based Captured Media. Initially designed for search and rescue missions, the specialized drone, Jarvis (aka DJI Matrice 30T), combines an infrared camera, a wide-angle camera, a 200x zoom lens, and a super bright spotlight – a configuration that enables effective operation in challenging conditions.

The unique setup allows for precision search and rescue-grade performance, with enhanced visibility during rainfall when heat signatures become more distinct against the cooled environment. Field data from the 2023 hunting season reveals compelling insights into wounded deer behavior, with research showing that an impressive 95 percent of fatally shot deer bed down within just 150 yards of their shooting location.

Moreover, nearly all wounded deer position themselves to observe their back trail – a crucial finding for wildlife managers and hunters alike. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) has taken a proactive approach in establishing clear laws regarding drone usage for wildlife management, providing both operators and clients with much-needed protection.

Market demand for thermal drones has surged significantly, particularly during peak hunting seasons. Major outdoor retailers like Green Top have jumped on board, helping spread awareness about the benefits of this innovative technology. During the opening evening of Virginia’s muzzleloader season, Updyke received an astonishing 10 calls within a mere 24 minutes – a testament to the intense demand for this service.

The post-season applications of thermal drones have proven equally valuable, with one documented survey revealing that the technology enabled precise counting of 174 deer on a 1,200-acre hunting property, including 34 bucks. This level of accuracy empowers landowners and wildlife managers to answer critical questions about deer populations, bedding areas, and habitat requirements for food and cover.

The success of thermal drones in wildlife management is clear, with their unparalleled search capabilities and accuracy poised to become an indispensable tool for years to come. Regulatory clarity from state agencies like Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources is providing a necessary safeguard for operators and clients alike, while market demand continues to drive innovation in this field.

Thermal drones are transforming the way we understand and manage our local deer populations, with their ability to provide accurate and timely information empowering wildlife managers and landowners alike. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative applications in the years to come.