Drones deployed to survey seal population on Jersey reef

Wildlife specialists have turned to drone technology to track and count seals on Jersey’s Ecrehous reef, aiming to gather data without disturbing the animals.

Concerns had been raised about the impact of human visitors on the seal population, particularly when young seals were feeding.

Kevin McIlwee, chairman of Jersey Marine Conservation (JMC), highlighted that drones provide a non-intrusive method for monitoring the seals.

JMC has recorded between 15 and 20 seals in a specific section of the reef.

“We are flying drones at approximately 300 feet (91 meters), ensuring minimal disturbance,” Mr. McIlwee explained. “The seals remain undisturbed as the drones do not pose a threat, unlike boats.”