Brown Hare tracking

[Watchtree]

Hi, Ive been monitoring Brown Hares at the nature reserve where I work (Watchtree) for nearly six years and now wish to develop this somewhat. I wish to be able to track a Hare using some form of radio tracking system. I have no idea where to start. I could probably catch one relatively easily but would require advice re the type of equipment required.
has anyone out there done something simimilar.
If feasable, I would like to be able to present the results on our website. I think a better understanding of this animals movements would prove v useful to us and others. Watchtree Nature Reserve Thanks

[lynnendaz]

hi Watchtree, don't know if this will help but a friend of mine uses telemetry for his racing pigeons,just found this site that does trackers for all types of wildlife,good luck and happy tracking.

[lynnendaz]

sorry forgot to post link ....ATS - World's Most Reliable Wildlife Transmitters and Tracking Systems : Product Types

[RoyW]

Do you have a more precise idea about what you would actually want to try and discover from this? Through research to find out what studies have already been done, and what their conclusions were should be where you start.

I would also suggest that you find and read as many studies as you can on similar studies with other species, and that you also try and attend a training course on tagging/tracking to find out exactly what is involved (the mammal society do occasional courses it seems). Any trapping and marking/tagging of wild animals is something that should only be done if you know exactly how to catch, handle, and tag/mark the animals without causing unnecessary stress and/or leaving the animal open to potential harm after release.

[Watchtree]

Thanks

Ive read a few reports. I'm quite sure that what I wish to do is justifiable and realistic - just need the practical 'know how' and technical kit. I agree re animal welfare and will keep an eye out for suitbale courses though ive yet to see something that relates specifically tho what i need. I did ask mammal society but they never got back to me - maybe they were busy. Ive been on small mammal trapping courses.
Cheers

Anyone else have any advice - i could just plough on and get on with it (take a chance) but just wanted to see if anyone has done something v similar and can pass on knowledge.

[davecatt]

Hi Watchtree
My personal opinion is that the best British supplier to contact for advice on field equipment and its use is Alana Ecology,they'll give good advice and can supply what you need BUT what you are proposing to do will prove to be rather expensive where ever you buy the equipment. Hope this link is useful

Alana Ecology Introduction to wildlife telemetry

Dave