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Satellite tracking: an example

Project Paola -Brief notes on satellite tracking methods

The first sea turtle Caretta caretta, released from Greece, to be tracked via satellite in the Mediterranean through an electronic transmitter fitted on her back. Project directed by the Curator, Dr. Flegra Bentivegna of the Stazione Zoologica "Anton Dohrn" in Naples (Italy) in collaboration with MEDASSET (Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles).

Brief notes on satellite tracking

Satellite telemetry has advanced dramatically and researchers can now track sea turtles in the open sea. Small Sony sized transmitters are attached to the carapace of adults and immature individuals by glues which are designed to allow the transmitter to fall of after 8-10 months. Transmitters send out data at regular intervals which are then picked up by orbiting satellites when the turtle surfaces for air. This data is then passed onto researchers who can access the data via their computer and modem.

The data received comes in digital form which is decoded using a special programme. The information provided by the transmitter can give data about the exact position of the turtle, the number of dives it has taken in a day and even yield information about water temperature and length of a dive.
This information is then plotted on a map and can give vital information about behaviour, speed, migration and breeding habits.
The data collected is becoming more reliable as the technology improves although short battery life and some degree of inaccuracy of the received data can make it less than 100% reliable. Despite this, satellite tracking is playing a vital role in understanding the habits and behaviour of sea turtles.

© 1997 MEDASSET
The map also shows the satellite tracking of "Gaeta", a female loggerhead turtle released by Statione Zoologica in July 1995.

Island of Kefalonia - Paola release point (13/04/97)
Cape Tenaro - Paola loss in transmission (25/05/97)
Island of Kea - Paola resumes transmission (06/97)

Further resources:
Status of the Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Naples and preliminary study of Migration.
Press Release No.2 16/04/97
Brief notes on migration in Sea Turtles.
Brief notes on satellite tracking methods.
The "Paola" project.