Analysis of the Beluga Fattening Cycle using photogrammetry

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) requires scientific expertise to assess the importance of spring in the annual fattening cycle of the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga population. The work involves analyzing aerial drone imagery and morphometric data collected in 2024 and 2025 to evaluate seasonal changes in body condition among male, female, and pregnant belugas. The contractor will conduct advanced photogrammetric and morphometric analyses using image analysis software to refine sex identification, identify pregnant females, and assess changes in physical condition across age and sex classes. The work also includes the preparation and publication of two scientific articles that meet the standards of internationally recognized peer-reviewed scientific journals.