MOTUS
The MOTUS Wildlife Tracking System is a collaborative international research network lead by Birds Canada, the Canadian Wildlife Service, and many Canadian universities including Guelph, Western, and Acadia designed to track the movements of small flying animals, such as birds, bats, and even large insects, with incredible precision. While traditional tracking methods often require large, heavy batteries or the rare chance of physically recapturing an animal, MOTUS utilizes tiny, lightweight transmitters called "nanotags" that emit unique radio signals. These signals are automatically picked up by a vast grid of stationary receiver towers whenever a tagged animal flies within range.
By linking thousands of these towers across the globe, the system creates a digital safety net that allows scientists to follow the entire migratory journey of a species in near real-time. This open-source approach to science enables researchers and the public alike to better understand migration patterns, identify critical stopover habitats, and coordinate conservation efforts across international borders.
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You can learn more about MOTUS here
MOTUS
MOTUS at Hullett
In the Spring of 2013, a Motus antenna was installed along the Orange Trail at the highest point in Hullett. Because the station operates 24/7, it provides a constant stream of data on the movement of flying species that might otherwise be difficult to monitor in the wild.
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The system is especially important for the protection of Species at Risk that call Hullett Marsh home, such as barn swallows and various species of bats. When a tagged animal flies within range of the antenna, its unique signature is recorded, documenting its presence in the marsh and its broader migratory journey. This information helps us understand how these vulnerable species use our local habitat for nesting, feeding, and resting during their long travels.
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All the data collected by the Hullett station is part of a global network and is available for public viewing. This technology offers a fascinating window into the hidden lives of the wildlife that makes Hullett Marsh so unique. See below for up-to-date observations from the Hullett Marsh MOTUS tower and check in on who might be stopping through!
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For information on the MotusAudio project - check out our Birding page!