Analysis of the Beluga Fattening Cycle using photogrammetry

DFO appears to be seeking a specialized scientific contractor to study how spring affects the annual fattening cycle of the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga population. The work would involve analyzing 2024 and 2025 aerial drone images and morphometric data, including refining sex identification, identifying pregnant females, and assessing body-condition changes by age and sex. The contractor would also be expected to prepare and publish two scientific papers suitable for internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals. The tender is open and is listed for Quebec outside the National Capital Region and Fredericton, New Brunswick. The closing date is September 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. The opportunity appears most relevant to organizations or researchers with advanced photogrammetry, image-analysis, beluga or marine-mammal science, morphometrics, and scientific-publication expertise. The tender details do not establish that any particular business qualifies. Review the complete official request for proposals, including mandatory qualifications, security or personnel requirements, evaluation criteria, deliverables, contract terms, and submission instructions,before deciding whether to bid: https://canadabuys.canada.ca/sites/default/files/webform/tender_notice/106514/30008273---rfp_en_final_0.pdf

• check_circleThe bidder would need to provide scientific expertise to assess the importance of spring in the annual fattening cycle of the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga population.
• check_circleThe work involves analyzing aerial drone imagery and morphometric data collected in 2024 and 2025.
• check_circleThe analysis would need to evaluate seasonal changes in body condition among male, female, and pregnant belugas.
• check_circleThe contractor would need to conduct advanced photogrammetric and morphometric analyses using image analysis software.