We deployed 0.45g nanotags with 1.0mm attachment tubes on front and back with an 18 cm antenna on Saltmarsh Sparrows (~20g) last fall. We used 1.0 mm elastic cord (jewelry thread) to create a leg-loop harness with some individually tied on the bird and others with pre-made harnesses. This summer we have recaptured several birds that still had their tags on but the antennas were missing (presumably pulled out by the bird). All of the birds also had chafing/missing feathers on the upper thighs and back. We were wondering if anyone has experienced this in the past. Also, tips/suggestions for attachment that others are using would be appreciated, as would success stories of harness material that does not cause chafing and degrades relatively rapidly. Ideally, we would like the tags to fall off the birds after ~2 months.
Consider using elastic nylon as an alternative. I’ve used it on American redstarts and Yellow-rumped warblers for short term applications (~2 months). It works well, and the transmitters are much lighter because this doesn’t require the tubes. I think I used 0.8mm stuff maybe even slight smaller. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Elastic-Cord-.8mm-20-Ft-Pkg-Black/32885916
Others have used the above method as well and might have opinions on proper harness sizes etc. Because its fairly elastic, it allows you to fit the transmitter a little tighter than stretch magic and has significantly more give which should reduce the chaffing. At least I haven’t seen any signs of chaffing on some of my recap AMRE.
I agree with Bryant’s comments. Myles Falconer and I also pull the nylon off the elastic so that only the elastic remains. I am not sure how long the elastic will last, but my guess is much less than a year.
Best,
Greg
From: Bryant Dossman Sent: Monday, August 1, 2016 10:23 AM To: Bri Benvenuti Cc: Motus Wildlife Tracking System Subject: Re: [motus-wts] Tag Attachment on Passerines
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Hi Bri,
Consider using elastic nylon as an alternative. I’ve used it on American redstarts and Yellow-rumped warblers for short term applications (~2 months). It works well, and the transmitters are much lighter because this doesn’t require the tubes. I think I used 0.8mm stuff maybe even slight smaller. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Elastic-Cord-.8mm-20-Ft-Pkg-Black/32885916
Others have used the above method as well and might have opinions on proper harness sizes etc. Because its fairly elastic, it allows you to fit the transmitter a little tighter than stretch magic and has significantly more give which should reduce the chaffing. At least I haven’t seen any signs of chaffing on some of my recap AMRE.