We're weighing options on how to fit GPS transmitters to adult Black Swans in New Zealand. They weigh ~4-7 kg depending on sex.
We have concerns about using collars as they may get caught in vegetation while foraging. Also concerned about satellite uplink capabilities down here; the telemetry company/network here doesn't offer collars, so we'd have to go through an overseas company. Another option is a dorsal attachment, but we've been advised against using any type of harness. We're leaning towards using a tail-mount approach, fitting a ~40g transmitter (Sirtrack PinPoint Iridium) to tail feather(s) just after moult. We should be able to get ~3 fixes per day for 9 months, which would cover winter and the following breeding season. However, we're concerned about whether these will stay attached (they cost ~$2,500 NZD each). I've found some studies where tail-mounts have been used on gannets, penguins, gulls... but nothing on swans or other large waterfowl. Curious if anyone has any insight or tips?
Thanks in advance.
Mark