Adams, Reid2026-02-042026-02-042024https://hdl.handle.net/1828/23122Drones provide an opportunity to rapidly census avian species in remote areas, addressing challenges associated with traditional methods and potentially reducing disturbance to the birds. Despite the increasing use of drones for avian monitoring, there is no consensus on the best practices for effective monitoring with minimal disturbance. In partnership with local communities, surveys and analyses were conducted on the responses of multiple culturally and ecologically important Arctic seabird species (Common Eiders, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Black-backed Gull, Herring Gull, Ring-billed Gull) to drone censuses. The investigation focused on drone flight parameters associated with heightened flushing events. I found no flushing during drone takeoff, suggesting effective methods for future researchers to minimise seabird disturbance during drone takeoff. The majority of flushing events occurred during drone approaches to nesting colonies and overhead flights. I observed high variation in response to the drone from the gull species and observed a greater response than expected from Common Eiders. Drone approach speed was a significant predictor of seabird flushing, with flushing events minimised during drone approach at speeds below 4m/s and altitudes above 50m. Regarding overhead flights along the surveying transect, drone survey speed was a significant predictor. Overhead behavioural responses were effectively mitigated with drone speeds below 5 m/s and altitudes above 50m. I provide optimal drone practices to minimise disturbance to breeding seabirds during census in remote Arctic regions, covering takeoff, approach, and overhead flight. Additionally, I discuss practical environmental concerns researchers should consider when employing these methods.enHonours thesisDepartment of Biology