Thermal Surveys as Baseline Evidence for Biosecurity Management

Not every first engagement with a pest animal problem needs to start with culling. In some situations, a thermal survey — an observation-only operation designed to count, map and assess the pest population — is a valuable first step, both for strategic planning and for documentation.

Survey vs Control Operation — What’s the Difference?

When a Survey-First Approach Makes Sense

• You’re not sure of the scale of the problem. A survey confirms whether the activity you’re seeing is a small, transient group or a significant established population — and whether a full control operation is warranted.
• You’re applying for a grant or council program. Some programs require a baseline survey report as part of the application process, before funding a control operation.
• You manage a conservation property and need population data. Nature refuge holders and conservation land managers often need baseline data for management plan reporting.
• You want to measure the before/after impact of a control program over time. Repeat surveys allow you to track whether your management is working.

Survey Report Contents

A PRS thermal survey report includes:

• Species confirmed present during the survey
• Estimated population size and density
• Activity hotspot map with GPS points
• Assessment of terrain and access for a follow-up control operation
• Recommendation for control timing and approach