A radio transmitter belt for small ranid frogs

Abstract/Summary

Radio telemetry is a useful technique for gathering information about amphibians when associated caveats are applied (Bartelt and Peterson 2000). A number of designs for transmitter attachment are available for larger anurans including a harness type attachment (van Nuland and Claus 1981) and various belt designs (Rathbun and Murphey 1996; Bartelt and Peterson 2000, Waye 2001). Attaching radios to small anurans is particularly problematic because of their mass, shape, and delicate skin. Small radios, https://0.61 grams or less, are available, although battery life is usually only 2 – 3 wks (e.g. Holohil Systems Ltd; Carp, Ontario, Canada ). The issues remaining are the weight and longevity of the attachment system, ease of application to the animal, and effect on the behavior and health of the animal.