In our group we use a variety of platforms to conduct ecological research. Below are a few of the platforms that we have experience with in high latitude and remote locations.
Multicopters
Tarot 680 (kit)
These UAVs are based on the Tarot 680PRO Hexacopter folding frame and a Pixhwak flight controller running ArduCopter software.
3DR IRIS+ (off the shelf)
These UAVs designed and built by 3DRobotoics and can be adapted to carry other small payload sensors such as GoPros or Sequoia multispectral sensors.
3DR Solo (off the shelf)
Phantom 4 Pro (off the shelf)
Fixedwings
Zeta Phantom FX-61 (kit)
These UAVs are based on the Zeta Phantom FX-61 flying wing. Using a Pixhwak flight controller running ArduPlane software.