Radio telemetry

Radio telemetry tracks animals by detecting radio signals from transmitters attached to them. Researchers use signal direction, strength, or timing to estimate an animal’s location and movement.

Radio transmitter: A device that emits radio-frequency signals, often at a set frequency or interval. An attached transmitter supplies the signal used to locate a tagged animal.
Wildlife tracking: The study of animal locations and movements using marks, sensors, or remote detection. Radio telemetry is one method within the broader practice of tracking wildlife.
GPS tracking: The use of satellite positioning systems to determine and record an object’s locations. GPS tags can log coordinates directly, while radio tracking often requires field detection.
Animal tagging: The attachment or implantation of identifiers or sensors to individual animals for study or management. Radio telemetry depends on attaching a transmitter in a way suited to the species.
Telemetry data: Measurements collected remotely from sensors or transmitters and associated with time or location. The form and frequency of recorded fixes determine which movement patterns can be analyzed.
Radio receiver: An electronic device that detects and processes radio-frequency signals. Field receivers detect transmitter pulses and help distinguish them from background noise.
Home range: The area an animal uses during its ordinary activities over a defined period. Repeated locations from radio tracking can help estimate an animal’s home range.
Satellite telemetry: The remote collection and transmission of measurements through satellite communication systems. Satellite tags can report data over long distances without a nearby receiver.
Biotelemetry: The remote measurement or transmission of data about biological organisms. Radio tracking is a location-focused form of the broader practice of biotelemetry.
Location error: The difference between an estimated position and the true position of an object. Uncertain bearings and variable signal strength limit the precision of animal locations.

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