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.

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.

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.

Collar attachment is the primary technique where the subject has a suitable body type and behaviour. Tracking collars are typically used on the animal's neck (assuming the head has a larger circumference than the neck) but also on a limb, perhaps around an ankle. Suitable animals for neck attachment include primates, large cats, some bears, etc. Limb attachment works well in animals such as kiwi, where the foot is much larger than the ankle.^{[citation needed]}

Harness attachments may be used when collar attachment is unsuitable, such as for animals whose neck diameter may exceed that of the head. Examples of this type of animal may include pigs, Tasmanian devils, etc.^{[citation needed]} Large, long-necked birds such as the greylag goose may also need to be fitted with a harness to prevent the removal of the tag by the subject.

Direct attachment is used on animals where a collar cannot be used, such as birds, reptiles, and marine mammals.

In the case of birds, the GPS unit must be very lightweight to avoid interfering with the bird's ability to fly or swim. The device is usually attached by gluing or, for short deployments, taping to the bird. The unit will then naturally fall off when the bird subsequently moults.