Drone-based assessment of sea turtle habitat use

Globally, sea turtles face significant threats from human activities. Yet, detailed information on their habitat use and specific anthropogenic impacts remains limited, particularly in key marine protected areas like Kenya's Diani-Chale National Marine Reserve (DCNMR). This study utilised

drone-based (UAV - unmanned aerial vehicle) monitoring and geospatial analysis to assess sea turtle distribution and habitat use, integrating data from the Allen Coral Atlas. Most sea turtle sightings occurred in reef zones (61.86%), while the reef slope was the most utilised geomorphic feature (26.7% of sightings). The study identified a significant sea turtle hotspot in the northern DCNMR, a region characterised by lower anthropogenic pressure and unique geomorphic features. Between February and July 2024, we conducted monthly UAV surveys (6–10 survey days per month) in the DDCNMR using a DJI Mavic 3 drone, completing multiple standardized 25-min flights per day that each covered ~1 km² via non-overlapping transects at 30 – 40 m altitude under optimal sea state and visibility conditions, resulting in 233 sea turtle sightings. UAV survey data were summarised descriptively, with sea turtle sightings mapped against geomorphological features as well as benthic habitats from an open-source high-resolution, satellite-based map and monitoring system for shallow-water coral reefs (ACA - Allen Coral Atlas). Allen Coral Atlas data and drone observations indicate that a widened reef slope and estuarine nutrient inputs provide a critical habitat gradient, offering turtles tidal-independent access to shallow foraging flats. Based on these findings, we recommend designating the northern reef slope as a priority no-take zone and conducting seagrass health assessments to guide potential restoration. This research demonstrates the utility of integrating drone surveys with open-access geospatial tools to provide the actionable spatial data necessary for targeted sea turtle conservation and informed marine spatial planning.