PROGRESS IN SATELLITE TRACKING CRANES

Authors

David H. Ellis, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Dwight G. Smith, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Glenn H. Olsen, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Mark R. Fuller, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Steven E. Landfried
Hiroyoshi Higuchi, Research Center, Wild Bird Society of Japan
Charles H. Vermillion, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Date of this Version

1992

Document Type

Article

Citation

Ellis, David H., Dwight G. Smith, Glenn H. H. Olsen, Mark R. Fuller, Steven E. Landfried, Hiroyoshi Higuchi, and Charles H. Vermillion. "Progress in Satellite Tracking Cranes.", In: Stahlecker D. W., ed. 1992. Proceedings of the Sixth North American Crane Workshop, Oct. 3-5, 1991, Regina, Sask. (Grand Island, NE.: North American Crane Working Group, 1992), 57-61.

Comments

Conference co-sponsored by the Canadian Wildlife Service, Saskatchewan Parks and Renewable Resources Department, and the Whooping Crane Conservation Association, Canadian Council. Proceedings used by permission of the North American Crane Working Group.

Abstract

We review the history of tracking cranes with satellite telemetry and identify some of the difficulties in designing satellite transmitters and harnesses for cranes. Miniaturization of these transmitters and a plethora of harnessing experiments since 1989 allow us to recommend limited application of this technology to all species of cranes. We are still uncertain, however, if cranes harnessed with satellite telemetry devices are able to reproduce after migration. Because of this uncertainty, we urge caution in the use of this technology, especially with breeding adults in severely endangered popUlations. This manuscript also describes continuing research needs.