Long-term attachment of transmitting and recording devices to penguins and other seabirds

TLDR

Transmitters and recorders on seabirds have evolved from bulky, unreliable units to small, solid‑state devices that can be deployed for long periods, and waterproof tape has been used to attach them to penguins. The study aims to develop a simple, long‑lasting attachment method that minimizes impact on the birds and keeps devices attached for weeks to months. The authors describe a waterproof‑tape technique that secures transmitters or recorders to penguins for extended periods. The technique kept devices attached for several days, demonstrating its feasibility for longer‑term deployments.

Abstract

Transmitters or recorders attached to seabirds have greatly enhanced our understanding of seabird ecology (Kooyman and Kooyman 1995). Initially, such devices were large and cumbersome, but with advances in solid state technology, units have become increasingly smaller, can be deployed for long periods, and are more reliable (Wilson and Culik 1992). Because the operating life of devices typically spans many months, it is desirable to have a simple method for attaching devices to free-living animals that is effective for long periods with minimal impacts on the carriers (Fraser and Trivelpiece 1994). Wilson and Wilson (1989) described the use of waterproof tape as a useful way to attach devices to penguins. They reported that units can remained attached for several days. We present a method for attaching devices to penquins that will allow the devices to remain securely attached for weeks to months at a time.