Performance and Accuracy of Lightweight and Low-Cost GPS Data Loggers According to Antenna Positions, Fix Intervals, Habitats and Animal Movements

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129271
• Publication Date: 2015-06-18T18:14:40Z
• Authors: Marie-Amélie Fori...; Pauline Hubert; Pascal Sirguey; Marie-Lazarine Po...
• Keywords: Data logger

Recently developed low-cost Global Positioning System (GPS) data loggers are promising tools for wildlife research because of their affordability low-budget projects and ability to simultaneously track a greater number individuals compared with expensive built-in GPS. However, the reliability these devices must be carefully examined they were not wildlife. This study aimed assess performance accuracy commercially available GPS first time using same methods applied test The effects antenna position, fix interval habitat on fix-success rate (FSR) location error (LE) CatLog investigated in stationary tests, whereas animal movements errors motion tests. units operated well presented consistent over FSR was good all positions intervals. LE affected by interval. Furthermore, completely or partially obstructed habitats reduced up 80% households increased LE. Movement across had no effect FSR, forest influenced Finally, mean (0.90 ± 0.26) (15.4 10.1 m) values from comparable those collars (71.6% fixes < 10 m tests), thus confirming suitability use studies.