Improving marine protected area zoning through species-oriented analysis using wildlife remote sensing

Designing protected area zones that align with species’ space use and key habitat requirements is critical for effective biodiversity conservation. This study presents a species-oriented approach using very high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery to assess and optimize the spatial zoning of a national nature reserve in China. We identified individual whooper swans (Cygnus cygnus) and analyzed their abundance and distribution from 2009 to 2016, including a detailed overwintering period. The satellite-derived data revealed substantial shifts in habitat use, including a tripling of swan numbers on the western shores and a sharp decline in Yangyuchi Bay. Over half of the swans were located in mudflats and unprotected or under-designated areas. By comparing swan distribution with existing zoning, we proposed a rezoning strategy that adds 301.8 hectares to the core zone. Our findings demonstrate how satellite-based wildlife monitoring can support adaptive, species-informed management of protected areas and contribute to the global target of conserving 30% of land and sea areas by 2030.