Progress Toward Tracking Migrating Raptors by Satellite
ABSTRACT
The ultimate objective of this radiotracking research is to track and monitor migrating birds by satellite. It is envisioned as only a part of a much broader program of satellite biological and ecological data collection (Wolff, Cote, and Painter 1975). The future need and demand for satellite tracking and monitoring of birds will very likely be focused on waterfowl and ocean birds, but large raptors, such as the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), provide ideal subjects for initial experiments. Current efforts are directed toward conducting successful feasibility experiments with these birds. Some specific objectives include equipment development and testing, animal-instrument interphase or attachment methods, evaluation of various feasibility tracking experiments with raptors, and suggestions for expediting a future program.
