Modelling of seabirds and marine mammals

APEM provides a range of modelling techniques to help estimate the size of seabird, marine mammal and other wildlife populations, and to understand how their numbers are affected by environmental changes.

Our scientists have supported clients on a wide range of projects, such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and providing advice with setting conservation objectives.

APEM have been supporting clients in the offshore wind industry across the world for several years, trusting us to demonstrate best practice and ensure that the data delivered meets the necessary legislation for the location surveyed.

Our early adoption of digital aerial survey methods has ensured that we are a global leader in this field of expertise, however we are constantly looking at new ways of working and methodologies to ensure we are delivering the most reliable and robust data for our clients. One such evolution is the use of LiDAR as an additional confidence level to record bird flight height.

Our seabird and marine modelling services include:

Analysing and interpreting survey data and associated information to deliver EIAs
Research using best practice methods
Working with data gathered by ground, digital aerial, aerial visual and boat-based surveys
Bespoke pre- and post-development surveys, such as BACI, plus other bird and marine mammal surveys
Assessments of bird and marine mammal population sizes and change through time and space using robust techniques, including distance analysis and functions that correct for detection
Density surface modelling from kriging to Generalised Additive Models to predict and visualise the spatial distributions of birds and marine mammals
In collaboration with CREEM, undertaking spatially explicit modelling using the latest analysis techniques such as CReSS and SALSA to assess how anthropogenic factors affect wildlife
Collision risk modelling for impact assessment

Our seabird and marine mammal modelling experience includes:

Delivering baseline studies and environmental statement chapters
Developing MigroPath, a modelling tool widely used during offshore wind farm EIA to assess and quantify any risk to migrating birds
The innovative use of data from GPS-tagged seabirds to much improve estimates of site usage in each case, lowering consenting risk significantly
Analysing still images from digital aerial surveys to estimate a 99.8% avoidance rate of offshore wind turbines by Northern gannets
Providing updated population sizes for Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Areas of Conservation (SACs)

Are you looking for the next step in your career?

We are always looking for new talent to join our team. Are you an experienced ornithology professional looking for a new position? Why not check out our full list of current vacancies on our Careers Hub?

Careers Hub

Have a question about this service?

The team at APEM would be happy to answer any questions you have about marine wildlife modelling. Please use the form below to get in touch.

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Modelling of seabirds and marine mammals - APEM