A method for retrieval of anchored stomach probes from seabirds

Abstract

In an attempt to hinder regurgitation of stomach probes in free-living endotherms, the use of spring-based anchors has been suggested although the difficulty of subsequent extraction of the probes from the stomach has been acknowledged. We present a modification in the construction of such anchored probes so that units can be easily retrieved using a magnetic grab system. The system was tested on 8 free-living Magellanic Penguins Spheniscus magellanicus in Argentina and was found to be quick and easy to use, involving minimal stress to the study animal while being 100% successful.