Wild Deer and Foxes Can Now Fit Their Own GPS Collars in New Capture-Free Tracking Method

Wild deer and foxes can fit themselves with GPS collars using baited devices, according to a newly published proof-of-concept study that could reduce the need to capture and handle animals for research.

The approach, called Capture-Free Telemetry, was developed by Professor Richard Bischof at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences. His study was published online in the journal BioScience on November 4.

The system uses deployment units designed for each species. An animal interacts with a baited device in its habitat and the collar attaches without a researcher first catching and restraining it. Trials in Norway demonstrated versions for red deer and red foxes; the deer fieldwork took place at the Norwegian Deer Centre.

The collars adjust to the animal's neck size and are designed to drop off after a few weeks or a couple of months. Built-in weak points allow the collar to separate if it causes discomfort or becomes tangled.

Researchers say avoiding capture could reduce stress and risks of injury while helping them study more animals for shorter periods. It may also reduce the changes in behavior that can occur after an animal is caught and handled.

The method remains a proof of concept rather than a replacement for all wildlife tracking. Bischof and collaborators plan further tests to compare its effects with traditional capture-based tracking and explore whether it can be adapted for other species.