EOLAS Insight Ltd. and the University of Edinburgh School of Geosciences
Our innovative approach improves on current puffin monitoring methods by making it faster, less invasive, and scalable. Using drones and light aircraft, we capture high-resolution images over a colony in order to map burrow locations. A 3D ‘digital twin’ of the colony enables users to explore and tag burrows as occupied, unoccupied — entirely from their desk. This data integrates seamlessly with EOLAS’ advanced mapping and reporting system, THEIA, creating a comprehensive virtual fieldwork platform for conservation purposes.
EOLAS and the University of Edinburgh responded to CivTech Challenge 10.3
The Opportunity
EOLAS aims to be Scotland’s leading seabird monitoring service, trusted by NGOs and regulated industries. Our platform supports environmental goals, informs policy, and guides economic planning. EOLAS has a clear roadmap to establishing itself within the global geospatial sector, with automation and simplification of workflows set to disrupt the market.
Next Steps
We will be scaling up to survey more remote colonies and increase seasonal coverage. AI tools are being developed to boost the speed and accuracy of burrow detection from the imagery. By integrating additional datasets, we will provide a more complete, data-rich picture of colony health and environmental conditions.
The Team
EOLAS delivers tailored geospatial solutions for organisations that use maps, currently focused on the environmental sector. By automating mapping processes, users can focus on what matters most. In partnership with the University of Edinburgh, we draw on leading expertise in research, teaching, and aerial data collection to enhance analysis and decision-making.
Amy Tyndall
GIS & EO Data Analyst, EOLAS
Tom Wade
Facility Manager and Chief Pilot, Airborne Research & Innovation Facility
Caroline Nichol
Professor of Applied Remote Sensing, School of Geosciences
Doug McNeil
Managing Director, EOLAS
