“Motus in Wisconsin: A Big Leap in Wildlife Tracking” by Jacob Woulf , Motus coordinator for Lake Michigan Bird Observatory

The Motus Wildlife Tracking System is a collaborative research effort that uses small radio tags and receiving stations to detect animals (primarily birds) as they move across the landscape. Unlike GPS transmitters that give precise location data, Motus tags emit a radio signal that can only be detected within a short distance (~9miles) of a Motus tower. Many organisms that carry Motus tags are not large enough for a GPS transmitter; Motus tags are also significantly less expensive than GPS transmitters. Because of their limited detection range, Motus towers must be strategically placed. Lake Michigan Bird Observatory (LMBO) received a large grant to construct 16 Motus stations along the western shore of Lake Michigan and also is working on a buildout of stations moving westward across the state.

Woulf graduated from UW-Green Bay in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in animal biology and in 2022 with a master’s degree in environmental science and policy. While there he tracked movements of American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants during the breeding season; he was hired by LMBO to help expand the Motus network in Wisconsin.

This program is offered in-person and virtually. If joining in person, meet at Mequon Nature Preserve (address bel0w). Zoom link is found below!

Ages 18+. Free to attend. Pre-registration required to attend in person.

Register for the In-Person Program
Join on Zoom