Key variables affecting measurements include distance, refraction, and distortion, with notable differences observed between air and water environments.

Researchers from various organizations, including the Tawaki Trust and the Antarctic Research Trust, created correction factors specifically for measuring prey size from video footage.

A team of international scientists, led by the University of Otago, has developed a new method for accurately estimating prey size using footage from animal-borne cameras, with their findings published in PeerJ.

The research utilized innovative tools like 'PenguCams' to observe predator-prey interactions in natural habitats that were previously inaccessible.

Footage was captured from various penguin species, including Humboldt, Tawaki, and King penguins, to establish correction factors for converting pixel measurements to real-world sizes.

The study found that while salinity levels do not significantly impact correction factors in water, variations in air and water correction factors arise due to differences in light refraction.

These correction factors enhance estimates of prey energy content, which is crucial for understanding wildlife feeding behavior.

Lead author Mr. Owen Dabkowski highlighted that the new method allows for direct measurements from video footage, aiding in the calculation of prey energetics.

The study provides a quick-reference table and example footage to demonstrate the practical application of the method, benefiting both marine and terrestrial ecological research.

This advancement is expected to significantly contribute to improved conservation efforts for species such as penguins.

To inform the development of linear models for correction factors, the research tested a reference object at various distances, salinities, and angles.