Last updated on Jun 10, 2024

What are the best GPS tracking devices for wildlife research and conservation?

Understanding the importance of GPS tracking devices in wildlife research and conservation is crucial to safeguarding our planet's biodiversity. These devices provide invaluable data on animal movements, behaviors, and habitats, enabling researchers and conservationists to make informed decisions about protective measures and habitat management. By tracking wildlife, scientists can gain insights into migration patterns, breeding behaviors, and the impact of environmental changes on different species. The right GPS tracking device can mean the difference between a successful conservation effort and the loss of critical data that could save a species from extinction.

1 Types Explored

When considering GPS tracking devices for wildlife research, it's essential to explore the various types available. Some devices are designed for small animals and offer lightweight, minimally invasive tags, while others are built for larger species and provide robust collars with long battery life. The choice of device depends on the size of the animal, the required data granularity, and the duration of the study. Researchers must balance the need for detailed data with the welfare of the animals, ensuring that the devices do not hinder their natural behaviors or cause unnecessary stress.

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Bilal Mahmood

Environment & Sustainability Manager@Parsons International Limited - providing a vital role in Business Development | Strategy | SEAs | EIAs | CEMPs | Audits | Inspections | Sustainability Plans | Permits | Presentations
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We have used Garmin (old-fashioned), where the waypoints can easily be entered manually, and the data can be downloaded electronically. We used the GPS to record the direct and indirect (footprints, fecal droppings) sightings during day and night surveys. During a visit to Reqo Diq mining site in Balochistan, Pakistan, baseline surveys in 2006 (one of my most memorable project), we identified reptilian species that originally belonged to Iran. We also encountered a horned-viper snake (a rare specie) during the visit. We recorded the photographs and also recorded their locations by using Garmin GPS.

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2 Data Precision

Data precision in GPS tracking is paramount for effective wildlife research. You need devices that can provide accurate location data, sometimes within a few meters. This level of precision allows for the detailed study of animal movements and habitat use. High-precision GPS tracking can reveal subtle behavioral patterns and interactions with the environment that are otherwise difficult to observe. When selecting a GPS device, consider the type of environment in which the animals live—denser habitats like forests or underwater settings may require more sophisticated technology for precise data collection.

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Bilal Mahmood

Environment & Sustainability Manager@Parsons International Limited - providing a vital role in Business Development | Strategy | SEAs | EIAs | CEMPs | Audits | Inspections | Sustainability Plans | Permits | Presentations
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During site surveys and after plotting the GPS locations, I found that GPS - Garmin showed the accuracy of five meters (plus, minus) that is amazing.

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3 Durability Needs

Durability is a non-negotiable aspect of GPS tracking devices for wildlife research. The device you choose must withstand diverse weather conditions, rugged terrain, and the wear and tear from animal activities. A durable GPS tracker will ensure continuous data collection over extended periods, which is often necessary for comprehensive studies. Look for devices with protective casings and materials that can resist water, dust, and impact. This resilience is crucial for long-term studies where frequent device retrieval and maintenance may not be feasible.

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4 Battery Life

Battery life is a critical factor in the effectiveness of GPS tracking devices for wildlife conservation. Devices with longer battery life reduce the need for frequent interventions, which can be both disruptive to the animals and logistically challenging for researchers. Ideally, you want a device that can last for the entire duration of the study, or at least has a power-saving mode that extends its operational time. The longer the battery life, the more data you can collect, leading to more accurate and comprehensive research findings.

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Ranvir Singhsachakul

Director of Marketing & BD @ MessageSpring 👨🏾💼 | Guiding Leaders and Companies to Build and Leverage Their Personal Brands 💡| Podcast Host 🎙
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Tracking wildlife can be a long and arduous process. Many people think you go, 5 minutes later you see and film everything and that's the final product for YouTube. The reality is VERY far from that. Hence having a device with good battery life is essential to do good work, gather as much rich and thick data as possible in as much time as can be possible.

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5 User Interface

The user interface of GPS tracking devices should be user-friendly and intuitive. You'll want software that allows for easy access to the data collected, with features that enable you to analyze and visualize the information efficiently. A good interface can significantly reduce the time spent on data processing, allowing researchers to focus more on analysis and less on technical difficulties. Whether you're in the field or analyzing data at your desk, a seamless interface can streamline your research process and improve your overall experience with the device.

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6 Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount when using GPS tracking devices in wildlife research. You must ensure that the tracking method chosen is the least invasive option that still meets research objectives. The welfare of the animals should always be at the forefront, with devices designed to minimize discomfort and not interfere with natural behaviors. It's important to adhere to ethical guidelines and obtain all necessary permits before commencing any research involving GPS tracking on wildlife. By doing so, you contribute to responsible conservation efforts that respect the well-being of the animals under study.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the best GPS tracking devices for wildlife research and conservation?

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1 Types Explored

2 Data Precision

3 Durability Needs

4 Battery Life

5 User Interface

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Development

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What are the best GPS tracking devices for wildlife research and conservation?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Types Explored

2 Data Precision

3 Durability Needs

4 Battery Life

5 User Interface

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Development

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