Researchers from Florida Atlantic University have used drones to map nesting hotspots for loggerhead sea turtles on a high-density nesting beach in Boca Raton, Florida. The study focused on understanding how both environmental features and human-made structures influence where loggerhead sea turtles choose to lay their eggs.
The research, led by Summer L. Manestar, a graduate student who completed her master’s degree in marine science and oceanography at FAU’s Department of Geosciences, utilized drone-based photogrammetry to create detailed maps and 3D models of the landscape. Additional methods included Real Time Kinematic GPS surveys and sediment granulometry to measure aspects such as beach slope, sand texture, and proximity of nests to artificial structures like dune crossover stairs. Statistical analyses were performed to determine which factors most strongly affected successful nesting attempts versus false crawls—instances when turtles come ashore but do not lay eggs.
Findings revealed that the steepness of the beach and the distance from dune crossover stairs were the most significant factors influencing nest site selection. Loggerheads were less likely to attempt nesting on steeper beaches or when stairs were farther away from nesting areas. In contrast, factors such as beach width and sand type did not have a significant impact. Researchers also found that the northern and central parts of the studied beach had higher concentrations of nests, while the southern end experienced more failed nesting attempts.
Nesting patterns changed over time: early in the season there were more false crawls than successful nests, especially in mid-beach areas; later in the season, nest locations shifted closer to the backbeach.
“This research really demonstrates how new technology can deepen our understanding of natural processes,” said Tiffany Roberts Briggs, Ph.D., co-author and chair of FAU’s Department of Geosciences. “By combining drone-based mapping with on-the-ground data collection, our team has revealed how even small variations in beach shape or the presence of human structures can influence whether a sea turtle successfully nests. These findings are not just important for science – they directly inform how we manage and protect Florida’s beaches for generations to come.”
Compared with satellites or LiDAR technology, drones offered high-resolution and cost-effective data that allowed researchers to identify subtle beach features relevant to turtle nesting.
The authors suggest that understanding these influences is essential for guiding coastal development and conservation policy. They note that this research framework could be applied to other species like green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea) across Florida’s coastline.
“Projects like this highlight how innovation and conservation go hand in hand,” said Roberts Briggs. “When we can pinpoint what makes a beach successful for nesting, we can take concrete steps to ensure that Florida remains a haven for these incredible animals.”
Study co-author James Gammack-Clark is a senior instructor in FAU’s Department of Geosciences.
