An Adjustable Radio-Package for Ducks

Abstract

Several methods have been described for attaching miniature radio transmitters to various bird species (Cochran et al., 1963; Brander, 1968; Brander and Cochran, 1969; Hessler et al., 1970; Godfrey, 1970). In studies of the ecology and behavior of prairienesting ducks, however, it was desirable to have a radio-package (transmitter, battery, harness) that could be used interchangeably on several species. The purpose of this paper is to describe a backmounted, adjustable, radio-package that is currently being used successfully on Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), Pintails (A. acuta), Gadwalls (A. strepera), and Blue-winged Teal (A. discors) in southcentral North Dakota.