A meta-analysis of parrot tracking studies reveals the difficulties of transmitter attachment to Little Corella (Cacatua sanguinea)

Abstract

Little Corellas (Cacatua sanguinea) are notorious for damaging crops and ornamental trees, and are an overabundant nuisance native in some urban areas. Habitat and landscape use studies ideally require the attachment of tracking devices. Here, we describe an attempt to attach GPS transmitters to Little Corellas using the backpack and keel-strap harness method. All five tracking devices initially attached to Little Corellas were removed by the birds within 48-hours. Additionally, a conspecific was observed chewing on the Teflon ribbon of a GPS harness shortly after the release of a Little Corella; a novel record that suggests cooperative abilities for the species. To complement our study, we conducted a literature review of parrot (psittacine) tracking studies. We investigated attachment styles and potential reasons for past device removals. Of the 46-relevant studies, neck collars were the most common attachment method (38.8%), followed by backpack harnesses (24.5%). Transmitter removal was documented in 28.3% of studies, with removals being most common for medium-sized (500–1000 g) species, and for combination (simultaneous back- and tail-mounts; n = 4) and backpack harness attachments (n = 6). Although there are relatively few parrot telemetry studies to date, they are increasing, and future studies will require considerable innovation and collaboration to overcome attachment style hurdles for difficult species, like the Little Corella.