Radio-tracking systems emit pulsed waves that could affect the health and alter the orientation of animals

Abstract

Overview

Radio tagging, as an essential technique in wildlife monitoring, has potential negative impacts that are not fully understood or considered, particularly concerning the effects on the health and behavioral orientation of tracked animals.

Findings

• Radio tagging is critical for ecological and movement studies in wildlife, often being the sole viable method.
• Despite its utility, the method's application has been indiscriminate, possibly altering animal survival rates and biasing study results.
• Concerns include the weight and harness of devices and unexplored non-thermal effects of modulated or pulsed electromagnetic fields.

Conclusion

This commentary highlights the importance of re-evaluating the safety and impacts of radio transmitters in ecological studies to mitigate unknown effects on animal health and behavior, backed by scientific evidence.