| The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) provides
breeding sites for raptors in southwestern Idaho. Biologists have been mapping occupied
Golden Eagle nest locations in the NCA since the 1960s, but the steep cliffs used by raptors as
nesting sites are difficult to represent on traditional 2D maps. This study used uncrewed aircraft
systems (UAS) equipped with multispectral sensors to collect imagery over Crater Rings
National Natural Landmark within the NCA. Using different sensor systems, UAS platforms, and
flight patterns, we investigated the most effective methods to collect imagery to create high
quality 3D mapping products. Our findings show that using a façade style flight pattern paired
with an obliquely faced red-green-blue camera provided digital maps with few holes and gaps
over the cliff faces. We also developed a nest site suitability model using topographic
parameters of slope, solar radiation, terrain ruggedness index, and height above the crater
floor. The suitability model corresponded to current and historical nesting locations. These
maps pinpoint areas important for nesting raptors and have the potential to investigate how
changing climate and increasing invasive plants are influencing the availability of nest sites.
Key Words: Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, Golden Eagle, Suitability Model, 3D Mapping |