An inexpensive automated site monitor using radiotelemetry

摘要

We developed an inexpensive, compact system to monitor the presence or absence of radiotagged birds. Costs were low enough to enable deployment of many units, and the system was adaptable to a wide variety of field situations. It was easily assembled from commercially available components. Minor modifications were required to reconfigure it for a variety of radio frequencies. Results from a validation test and two deployments at gray catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) nests are presented. This monitoring system allows automated collection of presence-absence data and allows the researcher to adjust the distance at which information will be recorded.