Drones and marine mammals in Svalbard, Norway

The impact of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) on marine mammals remains poorly documented despite their increasing use. In the high-Arctic Archipelago Svalbard, where face pressure from climate change and expanding tourism, use RPAS largely unregulated. this study we assessed impacts across a range species to provide science-based management advice, using variety sizes approach strategies. We explored sound levels animal behavior prior after flights. Preexperimental alertness influenced sensitivity disturbance notably. Harbor seals were more sensitive during prebreeding than molting, reacting at distances 80 m, whereas walruses responded <50 m. Polar bears reacted take-off 300 although response relatively low. White whales sight when flown ahead pod, below 15 Variations in typical overhead descents manual flights increased potential size; preprogrammed flight paths are advised. Our highlights factors that can influence including tidal state swell, presence young individuals, ambient noise levels,