In recent decades over 3 billion birds have been lost due to a variety of circumstances. One third of North America’s bird species are now at risk of extinction. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology now categorizes certain bird species as threshold and tipping point species that need our immediate attention to prevent species loss. The Motus Wildlife Tracking System provides vital information to researchers to help us support the systems and habitats that birds need.
From a statewide perspective, there are 4 grassland birds that are endangered or critically endangered. The more data we can get on those population numbers and their behaviors, the better we can respond to their plight.
From a local perspective, the receiving stations in our area could provide incredible insight into the biodiversity maturation of the Indreland Audubon Wetland Preserve, the tagging efforts could dovetail nicely with our Bluebird and Kestrel programs, and hopefully all of this data can generate new papers and studies at Montana State University.
Banding is the traditional way of tracking birds that use coded bands to help provide point-to-point information in a bird’s life cycle. Tags are miniaturized radio transmitters that emit signals that are picked up by receiving stations. The technology of the tags has reached a point where they are small enough to be used on small birds and even insects. They have been used successfully on Monarch Butterflies and dragon flies.
In short, more information, and more real-time information. Banding provides point-to-point information, while the tagging and tracking system can help fill in the movement information between nesting, staging and wintering areas. Tags and bands do not affect breeding or an other important functions of the bird. The tags also fall off the bird after about 9 months so they are not permanent additions.Â
A 200 watt solar panel sits at the base of the receiving pole and that helps power a 12 volt marine grade battery.
No, they are not permanent and they are relatively mobile. The center pole is held in place with a center stake at the base and three rebar stakes that support the pole with three sets of guy wires. There is little to no disruption of the ground in the area, and they can be moved at moments notice.
Tags have not affected bird copulation or nesting, flight patterns or distance. The tags are essentially little backpacks placed on the birds that wear out and fall off at approximately 9 months.
