wildlife radiotelemetry and remote monitoring joshua j. millspaugh, dylan c. kesler, roland w. kays,...
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WILDLIFE RADIOTELEMETRY WILDLIFE RADIOTELEMETRY AND REMOTE MONITORINGAND REMOTE MONITORING
Joshua J. Millspaugh, Dylan C. Kesler, Roland W. Kays, Robert A. Gitzen, John H. Schulz, Christopher T. Rota, Catherine M. Bodinof, Jerrold L. Belant, and Barbara J. Keller
IntroductionIntroduction Radiotelemetry provides novel information about animal locations and demographics
Biologists should be aware of the most appropriate tools for remote monitoring of wildlife
We consider many issues from design to equipment
Sampling Considerations and Study Sampling Considerations and Study ObjectivesObjectives
Sampling considerations are critical► Biologist assumes data are representative► Proper sampling maximizes quality of study
Study objectives► Identify target population and time period of interest► Prioritize biological parameters and comparisons of interest► Quantitative precision goals
Selecting AnimalsSelecting Animals
Minimize bias when selecting animals► Individuals vary widely in their ability to be captured► How do we realistically address?► Avoid obvious biases
Number of animals and number of locations► Based on quantitative criteria, not a guesstimate and not what we can afford► Difficult to do ►Some general recommendations such as 30-50 locations per animal (Seaman et al. 1999) depending on objectives
Data Collection and ManagementData Collection and Management Scheduling telemetry data collection
► Related to time frame of interest► Benefits of systematic schedule
Data Management
► Often overlooked, but shouldn’t be► Need better data sharing
Addressing Sources of BiasAddressing Sources of Bias Effects of transmitters
► One of the most important considerations► Often not evaluated, but should be► Ethical obligation
Location error► Inaccurate and missing observations► Many factors affect error
Equipment ConsiderationsEquipment Considerations
Common considerations► Which tag to use► How to attached► Data collection system► Examples
Equipment for Amphibians and Equipment for Amphibians and ReptilesReptiles
Reptiles and amphibians► Implants► External attachment
SUMMARYSUMMARY► Radiotelemetry powerful tool► Sampling considerations are critical to project
success► Need clear objectives► Use transmitter and attachment method that
minimizes impacts to study species► Several equipment options including VHF, GPS, PTT,
among others► Many useful sensors available► Biologists should consult others, the literature and
manufacturer to assess what works
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