A radio transmitter belt for small ranid frogs

Radio telemetry is a useful technique for gathering information about amphibians when associated caveats are applied (Bartelt and Peterson 2000). A number of designs for transmitter attachment are available for larger anurans including a harness-type attachment (van Nuland and Claus 1981) and various belt designs (Bartelt and Peterson 2000; Rathbun and Murphey 1996; Waye 2001). Attaching radios to small anurans is particularly problematic because of their mass, shape, and delicate skin. Small radios, 0.61 grams or less, are available, although battery life is usually only 2-3 wks (e.g., Holohil Systems Ltd; Carp, Ontario, Canada¹). The issues remaining are the weight and longevity of the attachment system, ease of application to the animal, and effect on the behavior and health of the animal.

Here I describe an attachment assembly tested in the laboratory on juvenile leopard frogs (Rana pipiens) and used on wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) in the field.