Differing approaches to GPS tracking of wildlife November 3, 2006
Posted by Rich in : GPS tracking wildlife , trackbackMoose are returning to Massachusetts, and with that comes a greater chance of moose – auto collisions. There has even been one fatality so far. A University of Massachusetts research project, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Division of Wildlife, is outfitting moose with GPS tracking collars. According to Tom O’Shea, assistant director at the Massachusetts Division of Wildlife, the state has up to 700 moose. Males can grow to 1,000 pounds and females can weigh over 600 pounds. The research is…
…expected to produce preliminary maps of migration patterns as early as January.
According to O’Shea, a comprehensive report is not expected until 2008. The report will include data pertaining to interactions between humans and moose.
Researchers hope to implement an electronic warning system that would alert drivers in areas on roads where moose frequently cross.
In Northern British Columbia, they are taking a different approach to wildlife collision avoidance, by putting GPS tracking systems on humans:
Ten Prince George drivers are being given mobile GPS units equipped with buttons that allow them to log when and where they see moose or deer — either dead or alive — along roads.
The information is then downloaded into a computer for analysis and mapping in the research program, which continues until next summer.
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