ETHOLOGICAL AND ECOLOGICAL
CHANGES IN BIRD TELEMETRY

Hans-Wolfgang Helb
University of Kaiserslautern
Working Group Biology and Ecology
Germany

Birds are world-wide a favourite and interesting group of animals and there is often an emotional relationship between humans and birds. However, they may also function as important bio-indicators used to support nature conservation schemes.

One way to use them is in telemetric studies. With the help of this technique, in which birds are monitored using small radio transmitters, we can gain detailed insight in the behaviour and ecology of the birds in the vicinity of settlement as well as in remote areas such as forests, lakes, mountains and the sea.

Using this technique remotely we can look at a big number of different parameters. For example we can get information on the birds spatial distribution and habitat, on their diurnal activity pattern (when do they feed, sleep, ...) and also on their interaction with their pair partner and neighbours. Also their migration including breaks can be monitored from the distance.

In addition with optical control of individual birds telemetry also allows us to investigate physiological functions and dynamics of the organism together with factors of the surrounding environment. This will enable us to detect natural as well as man-made disturbances of the birds and to determine the impact on the birds.

All results will help to define pollution factors and give us means for a successful pollution control and wildlife management. This will have a positive influence not only on our co-creatures, but also on us humans.