Developing a robust satellite-linked smart tag for long-term monitoring of large cetacean behavior
Abstract
This project will develop and demonstrate a novel, robust tool for remotely monitoring the feeding behavior and movement of large whales over long time periods (i.e., multiple months). Once demonstrated and in operational use, this satellite tag will allow the U.S. Navy to better comply with Federal environmental regulations and legislation related to marine mammals through an improved ability to monitor these protected marine species. We will redesign and adapt existing components of a satellite tag in development by Oregon State University to produce a more robust design, with defined performance characteristics for monitoring the feeding, dive, andmovement behavior of large whales. The more robust physical configuration (tag housing and components) will be developed through computer simulation and laboratory testing. The new design will then be demonstrated in field trials deploying the tag on humpback whales and conducting follow-up monitoring to ensure the tag is robust to forces experienced while attached to a whale. Additional field trials will be conducted with blue and fin whales to validate the tag dive summary and event detection software. Throughout the process, we will work closely with Telonics, a global leader in wildlife tracking technology, to ensure that the product meets their standards for quality, performance, and reproducibility, and to facilitate its transition into a commercially available product. The result will be a durable tag for long-duration monitoring of baleen whale movement, diving, and feeding behavior, with a demonstrated resistance to breakage and a defined accuracy for its behavioral monitoring software.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312624
Entities
People
- Daniel Palacios
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Oregon State University
- United States Navy