GPS animal tracking

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.

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.

[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.

In the case of reptiles such as crocodiles and turtles, gluing the unit onto the animal's skin or carapace using epoxy (or similar material) is the most common method and minimises discomfort.

[citation needed] Other applications include rhinoceros tracking, for which a hole may be drilled in the animal's horn and a device implanted.

[citation needed] Compared to other methods, implanted transmitters may suffer from a reduced range as the large mass of the animal's body can absorb some transmitted power.

[citation needed] Locational data provided by GPS devices can be displayed using Geographic information system (GIS) packages such as the open-source GRASS or plotted and prepared for display on the World Wide Web using packages such as Generic Mapping Tools (GMT), FollowDem (developed by Ecrins National Park to track ibex) or Maptool.

[10] GPS location data can be transmitted via the GSM mobile/cell phone network, using SMS messages or internet protocols over a GPRS session.

The advantages of these technologies for an animal tracking collar are that the device form size can be minimised, and the battery life is considerably extended.

Sigfox has already covered large parts of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, allowing rangers to track smaller forms of wildlife better.