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Drone Wildlife Surveys vs. Helicopter Surveys: How We Counted 133,000 Geese Across Ohio

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:01:01 GMT

Drone Wildlife Surveys vs. Helicopter Surveys: How We Counted 133,000 Geese Across Ohio

When Ohio's annual Canada goose population survey was at risk of not happening this spring, our team stepped in with drones and delivered a statewide estimate that wildlife managers could actually use. Here's what happened, what the data showed, and what it means for the future of drone-based wildlife surveys.

Why Drones Replaced the Helicopter This Year

The Ohio Division of Wildlife conducts annual waterfowl surveys to track Canada goose populations across the state. This spring, a helicopter wasn't available to complete the surveys. Rather than go without data for the year, wildlife researchers reached out to us to see if drone technology could fill the gap.

We flew 30 stratified survey plots across Ohio, covering both high-density and low-density goose habitat zones. The goal was to generate a reliable wildlife population estimate using UAVs in place of traditional manned aircraft.

What the Drone Survey Data Revealed

After processing the aerial survey data, the population estimate came back at 133,061 Canada geese in the state of Ohio this spring.

For context, ODW helicopter surveys over the past five years have ranged from approximately 60,000 to 80,000 geese annually. While our drone-based estimate is higher, it falls well within the range of historical helicopter surveys, which peaked near 150,000 geese back in 2011.

Drone Surveys vs. Helicopter Surveys: Breaking Down the Difference

The higher estimate raises a fair question: is the difference a sign that drones detect more, or is it just natural variation in the population?

The honest answer is that it's likely both, and further research will help sort that out. A few factors are worth understanding:

Sample size. We flew 30 plots compared to the ODW's typical 160. A smaller sample introduces more variance into the estimate, which is a known limitation of this particular survey.

Low-density habitat detection. The low-density strata, which covers most of Ohio, drove the estimate significantly higher than previous years. One likely explanation is that drones are detecting geese in low-density areas that helicopter surveys historically undercounted. At lower flight altitudes with stabilized camera systems, UAVs may simply be picking up more birds in sparse or fragmented habitat than a helicopter passing at higher speeds can capture.

Natural population variation. Canada goose populations do fluctuate year to year. Some portion of the difference may reflect real changes in the population, not a methodology gap.

The key takeaway is that drone-based wildlife surveys produced a credible, usable population estimate that was consistent with long-term historical data, even with a reduced number of plots.

Why Drone Wildlife Surveys Are Worth Taking Seriously

This project is a strong example of what professional drone wildlife surveys can offer:

Cost efficiency compared to helicopter operations and pilot hours
Flexibility to deploy quickly when traditional methods aren't available
Potentially improved detection in low-density or hard-to-access habitat
High-resolution imagery that can be reviewed and audited after the fact
Scalability for both small private properties and large statewide programs

Drone technology isn't a wholesale replacement for every wildlife monitoring method, but projects like this one demonstrate that UAVs belong in the toolkit alongside traditional approaches.

What's Next

We'll continue to follow this research as feedback comes in from the ODW. Our hope is that this spring's survey helps open the door to broader conversations about incorporating drone-based wildlife surveys into annual monitoring programs across Ohio and beyond.

If your organization, agency, or property is interested in drone wildlife surveys, aerial population monitoring, or thermal wildlife detection, we'd be glad to talk through what's possible.

Thermal Drone Deer Survey Helps Ohio Nature Center Improve Wildlife Management

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:52:35 GMT

Thermal Drone Deer Survey Helps Midwest Nature Center Improve Wildlife Management

Thermal Drone Deer Survey in Ohio: A Better Way to Count Deer

Accurate Deer Population Data Matters

Accurate deer population data is one of the most valuable tools a land manager can have when making decisions about conservation, habitat protection, and long-term wildlife management. In January, Elite Deer Recovery completed a thermal drone deer survey for a Midwest nature center in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. The goal of the project was to provide a clearer deer population estimate across a large conservation-focused property so the organization could make more informed management decisions.

Project Overview

The survey covered approximately 1,800 total acres across two separate survey areas. The property included a mix of habitat types, including wooded areas, fields, bedding zones, water sources, and conservation land. Because deer activity can vary across different habitat types, it was important to survey the property in a way that gave the client practical, location-based information instead of just a rough estimate.

Why the Client Chose a Drone Deer Survey

The nature center had completed deer surveys in previous years using aircraft. Those surveys were flown at night from approximately 2,000 feet. For this project, the client wanted to explore whether a drone deer survey could provide more detailed and usable data. Elite Deer Recovery used thermal drone technology to help identify deer across the property while also documenting other wildlife activity observed during the survey.

Why Deer Surveys Are Important for Conservation

For conservation properties, deer numbers matter. When deer populations are too high, they can place pressure on native plants, young trees, restoration areas, and sensitive habitat. Without reliable population data, it can be difficult for land managers to make informed decisions about habitat protection and long-term planning. This deer survey was completed to help the client better understand deer density, support management planning, and protect the different habitat types found across the property.

Thermal Drone Survey Advantages

A thermal drone deer survey offers several advantages compared to traditional aerial surveys. Previous plane surveys on the property were completed at night from a much higher altitude. For this project, Elite Deer Recovery flew during the day using drones equipped with both thermal and visual cameras. This allowed the team to section the property, fly controlled grid patterns, and review thermal signatures along with visual imagery when possible.

Drone Equipment Used

Elite Deer Recovery used DJI Matrice 4T and DJI Matrice 4TD drones for this project. Both drones were equipped with thermal and visual camera capabilities. The thermal camera helped detect warm-bodied animals against the colder winter landscape, while the visual camera helped provide additional context and documentation. This combination is especially useful during winter surveys, when cold temperatures and snow on the ground can create stronger contrast between deer and the surrounding environment.

Winter Survey Conditions

The survey was completed in January during cold, windy, and snowy conditions, with snow already on the ground. While those conditions can make fieldwork more challenging, they can also be helpful for thermal wildlife detection. Snow and cold temperatures can make deer stand out more clearly in thermal imagery, especially when the property includes wooded areas, fields, bedding zones, and water sources.

How the Survey Was Completed

To complete the survey, Elite Deer Recovery divided the property into sections and flew grid patterns across the designated areas. This organized approach helped ensure that each survey area was covered consistently. Instead of randomly flying over the property, the team used a structured flight pattern designed to capture useful data across the full survey area.

Survey Area One Results

The first survey area was an approximately 800-acre farm section. On this section, Elite Deer Recovery documented 88 does on the property and 4 does off the property, for a total of 92 does observed. The team also documented 16 bucks on the property and 0 bucks off the property, for a total of 16 bucks observed. In total, 104 deer were found on the property, with 108 deer observed overall when including deer just off the property. The deer density for this section was approximately 14.1 deer per 100 acres. Two coyotes were also observed during this portion of the drone wildlife survey.

Survey Area Two Results

The second survey area was approximately 1,000 acres. On this section, Elite Deer Recovery documented 79 does on the property and 9 does off the property, for a total of 88 does observed. The team also documented 9 bucks on the property and 0 bucks off the property, for a total of 9 bucks observed. In total, 88 deer were found on the property, with 97 deer observed overall when including deer just off the property. The deer density for this section was approximately 8.6 deer per 100 acres. Other wildlife observed during the overall survey included coyotes, raccoons, and turkeys.

What the Client Received

The completed drone deer survey gave the client information they could actually use. After the flights were completed, Elite Deer Recovery provided a report, map, images, video, and a count summary. These deliverables helped the client review where deer were located, how many deer were observed, and how deer were using different parts of the property. For a conservation-focused organization, that kind of information can be extremely valuable when making habitat and wildlife management decisions.

Why Deer Surveys Are Valuable

This project also showed why deer surveys are becoming an important tool for nature centers, parks, municipalities, conservation groups, private landowners, and land managers. A professional deer survey can help answer important questions about deer numbers, deer density, habitat use, and wildlife activity. When paired with thermal drone technology, the survey can provide a more detailed view of how deer are using a property without relying only on ground observations or high-altitude aircraft surveys.

Drone Wildlife Surveys Across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana

Elite Deer Recovery provides drone deer survey and drone wildlife survey services across the Midwest, with a primary focus on Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. These surveys are useful for nature centers, parks, land managers, HOAs, conservation groups, municipalities, and private landowners who need better data for management planning. Whether the goal is habitat protection, deer population monitoring, or long-term conservation planning, a thermal drone deer survey can provide valuable information.

Why Choose Elite Deer Recovery

A successful survey requires more than simply flying a drone. It requires an understanding of wildlife behavior, terrain, habitat, thermal imagery, flight planning, and how to turn field observations into a useful final report. Elite Deer Recovery combines field experience with advanced drone technology to help clients collect better wildlife data and make better management decisions.

Watch the Survey Video

We also recorded a YouTube video from this project showing how the survey was completed and how thermal drone technology can be used for deer population estimates. The video gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the process and helps explain why drone wildlife surveys can be so valuable for conservation properties and land managers. CNC Nature Center Video

Book a Drone Deer Survey

If you need accurate deer population data for your property, Elite Deer Recovery can help. We provide thermal drone deer surveys, drone wildlife surveys, and Midwest deer surveys for clients across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and surrounding states. Whether you manage a nature center, park, large property, municipal land, conservation area, or private farm, our team can help you collect the data you need for smarter land and habitat management.

Call Elite Deer Recovery today or fill out our online form to book a drone deer survey and learn how thermal drone technology can help you better understand the wildlife on your property.

Elite Deer Recovery & Crihfield Drone Services Heading to the 2026 Open Season Sportsman’s Expo

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 23:36:58 GMT

Elite Deer Recovery & Kirksville Drone Services Heading to the 2026 Open Season Sportsman’s Expo

If you're heading to the 2026 Open Season Sportsman’s Expo in Columbus, make sure to stop by and see us.

Elite Deer Recovery and Crihfield Drone Services will be attending March 20–22, and we’d love to meet you.

Expo Hours:

Friday: 2 PM – 7 PM

Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM

Sunday: 9 AM – 3 PM

Elite Deer Recovery and Crihfield Drone Services are your one-stop shop for drone deer recovery in Southern Ohio. Stop by the booth and talk deer hunting, drones, wildlife surveys, or anything else on your mind.

It’s always great getting the chance to connect with people in person and put a face to the name.

Together, Elite Deer Recovery and Crihfield Drone Services provide drone deer recovery throughout Southern and Southeastern Ohio, including Warren, Clermont, Clinton, Brown, Highland, Adams, Fayette, Ross, Pike, Scioto, Lawrence, Gallia, Jackson, Vinton, Athens, Meigs, and Washington counties.

For wildlife surveys, aerial mapping, and agricultural drone services, we serve clients across Ohio and surrounding states.

Elite Deer Recovery Offers Game-Changing Tools for Serious Hunters

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 20:35:53 GMT

Elite Deer Recovery Offers Game-Changing Tools for Serious Hunters

Elite Deer Recovery Offers Game-Changing Tools for Serious Hunters Via Drones

If you're a serious hunter, you already know success in the field comes down to preparation, strategy, and having the right tools. At Elite Deer Recovery , we provide cutting-edge services designed to give you an advantage before, during, and after the hunt.

From deer recovery to aerial wildlife surveys and custom property maps , we help hunters across the Midwest get the most out of every acre and every shot.

1. Deer Recovery Services When the Shot Doesn’t Go as Planned

Even seasoned hunters can make less-than-perfect shots. When that happe ns, Elite Deer Recovery is here to help recover your deer quickly, respectfully, and professionally.

We’r e based in Highland County, Ohio, and serve surrounding counties including:

Clinton, Brown, Clermont, Warren, Fayette, Ross, Pike, Scioto, and Adams

With a deep understanding of local terrain and expert tracking skills, we turn uncertain o utcomes into recovered harvests—reducing waste and honoring the animal.

Learn more about Deer Recovery

2. Submission-Grade Wildlife Surveys Know Your Herd from Above

Want to truly understand your property, herd movement, and habitat usage? Ou r submission-grade aerial wildlife surveys give you:

A bird’s-eye view of your land and game patterns
High-resolution data to identify bedding areas, food sources, and travel corridors
Actionable insights to guide habitat improvements, stand placement, and hunting strategy

We use advanced drone technology to deliver precise, efficient surveys for landowners and hunters across:

Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia

Learn more about our Submission Grade Wildlife Surveys

3. Custom Property Maps The Best Detail on the Market

Don’t settle for generic maps. Wit h Elite Deer Recovery’s custom property maps, you get:

Detailed topography and habitat features
Accurate mapping of trails, stands, food plots, water sources, and more
The most accurate and user-friendly views of your property, tailored specifically for hunting and management

Whether you're planning your next hunt or making long-term habitat upgrades, our custom maps give you clarity and control.

Learn more about the highest detailed maps on the market

Book Now Game-Changing Views and Insights Start Here

We’re currently booking for aerial surveys and mapping projects—and recovery calls are ramping up as hunting season approaches.

If you're ready to take your land and hunting strategy to the nex t level, Elite Deer Recovery is your go-to partner for tools that serious hunters rely on.

�� Based in Hillsboro, Ohio
�� Contact us today to get on the schedule
�� Serving OH, IN, KY, and WV for surveys and maps
�� Deer recovery in Highland County and surrounding areas

July Prep is in Full Swing – Deer Season is Coming Fast

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 20:10:12 GMT

July Prep is in Full Swing – Deer Season is Coming Fast

It’s officially July, and the countdown to deer season is on. Around here, we’re busy like everyone else—clearing spots for food plots, refreshing mineral sites, and checking trail cameras every chance we get. There’s nothing like the build-up to fall, and if you’re like us, the excitement hits harder with every velvet buck that shows up on camera.

This is the time of year when the foundation for a successful season is built. Dialing in stand locations, watching deer patterns shift, and putting in the work now can make all the difference once the rut hits.

We’ve also been getting a huge helping hand from High Beam Property Management. They’ve been taking care of some of our bush hogging and land clearing projects, making it easier and faster to get plots in and access trails ready. If you’re needing any brush work, stump grinding, or property cleanup done before season, check them out at High Beam Property Management | Hillsboro OH

Behind the scenes, we’re also training hard prepping our gear, sharpening our skills, and getting ready for what’s shaping up to be another wild year of deer recovery. Last season was nonstop, and we’re expecting even more calls this year. The trails are already getting worn in, and we can feel the momentum building.

There’s something special about the calm before the chaos—early mornings, new bucks on camera, and the smell of fresh dirt after putting in a plot. Soak it in. Season will be here before we know it.

Elite Deer Recovery Wraps Up a Successful 2025 Property Mapping Season: 25 Maps Covering 5,000 Acres Across Ohio

Thu, 22 May 2025 20:33:54 GMT

Elite Deer Recovery Wraps Up a Successful 2025 Property Mapping Season: 25 Maps Covering 5,000 Acres Across Ohio

Elite Deer Recovery Wraps Up a Successful 2025 Property Mapping Season: 20 Maps Covering 5,000 Acres Across Ohio

As the 2025 property mapping season comes to a close, Elite Deer Recovery proudly announces the completion of 20 custom aerial maps, encompassing over 3,600 acres throughout Southern and Central Ohio. This milestone underscores our commitment to providing landowners, hunters, and wildlife managers with the most detailed and accurate property insights available.

Precision Mapping with Advanced Technology

At Elite Deer Recovery, we specialize in creating high-resolution aerial maps powered by Aerial Wildlife Solutions. Our maps offer unmatched detail, capturing every contour and feature of your property with stunning clarity. Utilizing up-to-date imagery, we ensure that our clients have the most current information for effective land management and strategic planning.

Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs

Whether you're a hunter aiming to optimize your strategy, a landowner interested in habitat management, or a wildlife manager seeking comprehensive data, our custom maps are designed to meet your specific requirements. We offer a range of printing options, including large-scale prints for planning and portable maps for field use, all crafted with precision and durability in mind.

Serving the Heart of Ohio

Based in Hillsboro, Ohio, Elite Deer Recovery proudly serves a wide area across Southern and Central Ohio. Our expert team is dedicated to delivering top-tier aerial mapping services, ensuring that clients receive the best tools for their land management goals.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on a productive season, we're already gearing up for the next. If you're interested in enhancing your property's potential through detailed aerial mapping, now is the perfect time to plan ahead. Contact us to discuss your mapping needs and secure your spot for the upcoming season.

Contact Elite Deer Recovery Today

Ready to transform your land management strategy with precision aerial mapping? Reach out to Elite Deer Recovery to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in achieving your goals.

Thermal Drones for locating lost Livestock

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 21:24:53 GMT

Recover Lost Livestock Quickly with Thermal Drones

When livestock escapes, every minute counts. Traditional search methods can be time-consuming and often lead to unnecessary stress for both the animals and the farmer. That’s where our thermal drone technology comes in, providing a fast and reliable solution to locate lost livestock.

Why Thermal Drones?

Thermal drones are equipped with infrared cameras that detect heat signatures, making it easy to spot animals even in dense vegetation or at night. Unlike conventional methods, our drones can cover large areas quickly, ensuring that no time is wasted in bringing your livestock back to safety.

The Benefits

Efficiency: Our drones can scan vast areas in a fraction of the time it would take on foot or with vehicles.
Accuracy: The thermal imaging ensures that even animals hidden from view are detected.
Assistance in Capture: Once located, our drones can assist in the capture and safe return of your livestock.
Safety and Responsibility: Missing livestock poses a risk to others and remains the farmer’s responsibility. Our service helps you fulfill that obligation quickly and effectively.

Protect Your Investment

Livestock is a significant investment, and losing animals can have a substantial financial impact. By using our thermal drone services, you can minimize these risks and ensure your farm runs smoothly. Trust in our expertise to keep your livestock safe and secure.

If you’re facing the challenge of lost livestock, don’t hesitate—our thermal drone services are here to help you recover and secure your animals efficiently.

If you're in need of assistance locating livestock give us a call 937-403-8622