Does anybody have recommendations for leg-loop harness materials that would last 4 months or so but not last a full year? Most of the descriptions I’m seeing in the literature are geared toward short-term (a few weeks) radio tags or long-term geolocators, but not much for intermediate time periods. We’re looking for harness materials that would last the breeding season and through fall migration (about 120 days) but then have a good chance of dropping the transmitter over the winter. Thanks.
Hej,
We have been using elastic cord: https://www.cchobby.com/catalog/product/view/id/31984/s/elastic-beading-cord-1-mm-black-25-m-1-roll/
The one with a 1 mm diameter usually lasts for about a year before it falls off (though there is quite some variation, from about 8 month to 20 month).
I have used once a thinner version (I think 0.5 mm) and that lasted much shorter. Unfortunately I don’t remember anymore for how long. It might be quite a good shot if you aim for 4-5 month.
Best wishes
Arne
Hello,
We have used the same type of elastic jewelry cord that Arne suggests. We used the 1.0mm type and were unable to collect useful data on retention time, except that most if not all were retained for 6 months or more. There is also a 0.8mm version that might be worth considering. The retention times for this type of elastic will be somewhat dependent on exposure to water and extreme heat or cold.
Good luck,
-Blake
Indeed, I use 0.5 jewelry elastic cord and it lasts on a few birds for up to 7 months but not for most. Definitely lasts a few months.
Cailin O’Connor, NJ