BOEGE-TOBIN, D.D.*; CONGDON, E.R.*; DOERR, J.G.*; University of Missouri, St. Louis; University of Missouri, St. Louis; Lewis and Clark Community College, Godfrey, IL: Radio-telemetry in mammals without necks: choosing appropriate transmitters and implantation techniques.

Recent advances in technology have allowed researchers to conduct studies of animal movement patterns previously considered daunting, if not impossible. Unfortunately, this technology is sometimes more easily designed than applied. Radio-telemetry is one such technology. For mammals with necks similar in circumference to their heads, collars simply slip off, and as such, other attachment methods are typically employed. Additionally, putting radio-transmitters on juveniles that are still developing, be it with neck collars or backpacks, can be dangerous if not done properly. Finally, introducing radios internally with sub-cutaneous or intra-peritoneal implants may introduce infection risk and myopathy (due to capture, anesthesia, or surgery). Regardless of implantation method, the ability of the radio to transmit a signal through tissue, accompanied with reduced antenna size, may inhibit the effectiveness of the technique. We will present our experiences with radio-tracking river otters in Missouri, opossums in Illinois and Missouri, and capybaras in Venezuela, each with its own challenges and several potential solutions. We will also present a set of questions that we feel should be considered when choosing a radio-transmitter and method of implantation. With this discussion we hope to allow future studies to reduce the cost, both in dollars and more importantly, animal welfare, due to trial and error decision-making.