Narwhal ( <i>Monodon monoceros</i> ) detection by infrared flukeprints from aerial survey imagery

Visual and observer aerial surveys are important for monitoring wildlife populations but subject to visibility biases where animals may go undetected. The use of infrared technology in has the potential reduce biases, both when recording data retrospective processing footage, thus complements visible wavelength photography. We used video during marine mammal high-Arctic indirectly detected narwhal (Monodon monoceros) via their thermal flukeprints (i.e., thermo-stratified water mixing from fluke strokes). This novel indicator persisted a longer duration than animal was at water's surface, which likely improved probability an being observed by increasing its detectability. Using complement photographic assist whales, especially remote areas. Our results highlight how be develop automatic detection remote-monitoring methodology.