Tracking collar and infrastructure for leopard research

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This project targeted the development of a new tracking collar, trap telemetry systemand supporting infrastructure, to aid researchers from the Cape Leopard Trust. Previouslyused collar products had all proven insu cient in some capacity and remote monitoring oftrap sites was also required. Tracking collars are used to identify the movement patternsof the leopards and through the resulting research, assist in protecting this threatenedspecies. In the development of the tracking collar and trap telemetry system, a high levelsystem design wasrst formulated, identifying major components that would be required.Alternative methods for implementation were then considered and the most optimal chosen.Two di erent modes of communication with the collar were envisioned and designed for.These would be used to transmit logged coordinates obtained from a GPS receiver back toresearchers. A VHF terrestrial radio link was investigated, but an Iridium Satellite basedsolution was ultimately selected. An Iridium Satellite communications system was also usedfor transfer of trap state data. Ultimately, a working trap telemetry system was deliveredfor use by researchers. The tracking collar system had progressed to a working prototype,requiring miniaturisation and packaging before deployment. A possible packaging solutionwas also identi ed. The trap telemetry system, although displaying certain de ciencies,provided a capability previously unavailable to researchers. With further development, thereis potential for the tracking collar to provide accurate satellite tracking and communicationsin a mass and price combination not previously available.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University