Technology as fundamental part in reintroduction of species

Discover with Gerardo Cerón (Rewilding Argentina Foundation) “Technology as fundamental part in reintroduction of species”, an article that teaches us the important role of the technological tools for recovering populations of wild animals.

The reintroduction processes of animal species are inherently complex. Understanding the spatial ecology of a species to implement conservation management measures, as well as monitoring an individual in a reintroduction project, requires cutting-edge technology. Each project undertaken by the Rewilding Argentina Foundation presents unique challenges when it comes to monitoring the species we work with, in environments as diverse as the Patagonian sea or mountains, extensive wetlands, and impenetrable forests.

Captura de Lobo Dos Pelos en Patagonia Azul / Capture of South American fur seal in Blue Patagonia
Fotografía / Photography: Maike Friedrich

Without a doubt, the most commonly used and most useful devices for these monitoring efforts are GPS and/or VHF transmitters. In the case of the former, these devices record the positioning coordinates of the individual carrying them, which are then either retrieved by a special antenna or sent directly to a satellite, allowing the data to be downloaded to a computer. Once these points are plotted on a digital map, we can determine, for example, if the animal remained in the same location for an extended period. What was it doing there? Is it its burrow, or did it give birth or catch new prey? By visiting these sites, we can confirm these activities and better understand how the animal uses its environment or adapts after being released.

Monitoreo satelital Aguará guazú / Aguará guazú satellite monitoring
Fotografía / Photography: Sebastián Navajas

The VHF system, on the other hand, requires a signal receiver and an amplifying antenna to locate the animal in the field and observe it directly. This allows us to check its condition and make observations about its behavior, physical status, and make decisions such as providing supplemental food during the initial stages after reintroduction until it can fend for itself. These two technologies are essential for studying free-ranging animals that travel long distances and must adapt to the shape, size, and environment in which the species lives. Transmitters used on macaws, anteaters, jaguars, and sea lions will have different shapes, weights, and attachment systems to the animal’s body to minimize discomfort and ensure proper functioning.

Monitoreo con antena en Parque Iberá / Monitoring with antenna in Iberá Park
Fotografía / Photography: Beth Wald

A complementary technology to these systems is undoubtedly the trail camera, these are equipped with motion sensors, can be programmed to take photos or videos, both day and night, and can be placed in strategic locations in the field, waiting for something to move in front of them. Once the records stored on memory cards have been reviewed, it is possible to determine if our target species passed through a specific area and at what time. For certain species, it is even possible to identify individual animals based on color patterns. These three technologies combined are essential for studying free-ranging animals, but technology is also present in the pre-release phase, in soft release enclosures, and for breeding animals in captivity.

Gobernador Gustavo Valdés en San Alonso / Governor Gustavo Valdés in San Alonso
Fotografía / Photography: Matías Rebak

If we want to get to know the details of maternal care from a female giant otter or how a young jaguar develops its hunting skills before being released, it is necessary to have a remote video surveillance system. These systems allow us to observe on a monitor from a distance what is happening in the enclosure without interfering with our presence, providing valuable information for decision-making and adjustments to the project.

Monitoreo con cámara de colonia de cormorán imperial en Patagonia Azul
Fotografía / Photography: Martín Brogger

Technology plays a key role in species reintroduction projects and is an essential tool for carrying them out as effectively as possible. Its use allows us to enhance these projects and support individuals to give them the best possible start in their new phase of recovering populations and addressing the global crisis of mass species extinction. By combining technological advancements with scientific knowledge and fieldwork, we can implement actions that once seemed utopian. Today, it is possible to dream big and turn those conservation dreams into reality.