GPS backpacks provide real-time data, offering a wealth of information about a patient. This technology would allow TRC to answer specific scientific questions, such as the efficacy of renesting and fostering techniques and outcomes of birds treated for lead poisoning or fractures.
TRC is “gearing up”
Looking to the future, our hospital is preparing for the use of GPS-enabled backpacks for post-release monitoring. Unlike bands, GPS backpacks provide real-time data, offering a wealth of information.
Bands, while important, fail to tell us the whole story of a bird's life post-release. Unfortunately, the return rate for bands is low—less than 10 percent for raptors—because the band must be recovered, typically when the bird is found deceased or recaptured.
The purpose of post-release monitoring is simple yet crucial: to determine if rehabilitated birds are thriving after they’re released back into the wild.
Responding To a Need
The mission at The Raptor Center (TRC) goes beyond rescuing and rehabilitating raptors. Its staff strives to practice evidence-based medicine, ensuring that every step taken in its raptor rehabilitation hospital is grounded in scientific research. Since its start 50 years ago, the field of raptor medicine is still developing, and scientific data is often scarce. This is where post-release monitoring becomes a vital tool.
This research will enhance understanding of raptor rehabilitation and strengthen our ability to contribute to the conservation of these majestic birds. By combining past experiences with this technology, TRC is poised to make even greater strides in ensuring released raptors continue to soar.
Future Opportunities
The possibilities are endless! Thanks to philanthropic supporters, we can advance the impact of this research through STEM-inspired learning. With this new data, we hope to build an educational landing page that allows classrooms to follow and learn from birds on their journeys in the wild while inspiring them with a love for science.