GPS animal tracking

For broader coverage of this topic, see Animal migration tracking.
For a chronological guide, see History of wildlife tracking technology.
Tigress with radio collar in Tadoba Andhari National Park, India

GPS animal tracking is a process whereby biologists, scientific researchers, or conservation agencies can remotely observe relatively fine-scale movement or migratory patterns in a free-ranging wild animal using the Global Positioning System (GPS) and optional environmental sensors or automated data-retrieval technologies such as Argos satellite uplink, mobile data telephony or GPRS and a range of analytical software tools.[1]

A GPS tracking device will generally record and store location data at a predetermined interval or on interrupt by an environmental sensor. These data may be held pending recovery of the device or relayed to a central data store or internet-connected computer using an embedded cellular (GPRS), radio, or satellite modem. The animal's location can then be plotted against a map or chart in near real-time or, when analysing the track later, using a GIS package or custom software.

GPS tracking devices may also be attached to domestic animals, such as pets, pedigree livestock and working dogs. Some owners use these collars for geofencing of their pets.[2]

GPS wildlife tracking can place additional constraints on size and weight and may not allow for post-deployment recharging or replacement of batteries or correction of attachment. As well as allowing in-depth study of animal behaviour and migration, the high-resolution tracks available from a GPS-enabled system can potentially allow for tighter control of animal-borne communicable diseases such as the H5N1 strain of avian influenza.[3]

  1. ^ Schofield, Gail, et al., "Novel GPS tracking of sea turtles as a tool for conservation management", Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 347 (2007) 58–68
  2. ^ Fehrenbacher, Katie (2004-08-24). "Global Pet Finder: GPS pet collar". Engadget. Archived from the original on October 25, 2008. Retrieved 2009-03-17.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  3. ^ "USGS Release: Satellites Help Scientists Track Migratory Birds: GPS the Latest Tool in Fight Against Avian Influenza (9/6/2006 9:38:16 AM)". Archived from the original on 2008-02-12. Retrieved 2008-01-28.