Animal Tracking

Recent Animal Trackings

The Importance of Tracking

Whenever financially and ethically possible, the Marine Animal Rescue Program (MARP) fits released animals with satellite tags. The tags allow the team to temporarily monitor the migration of reintroduced animals. Whenever the animal surfaces, the tag sends a signal to a satellite, indicating its location.

The MARP team watches for indications that the animal has successfully survived its reintroduction to the wild, and scientists, both at the National Aquarium and in organizations around the world, assess the data.

In which direction is the animal traveling? How quickly is it moving? What types of manmade or natural obstacles must it overcome? These questions only scratch the surface of what can be learned through careful study of the collective data.

The data are not just indicators of a one-time success. The information leads to insights about marine species that prepare rescuers for future cases. More importantly, the information is used in an effort to protect wild animals, to ensure that they live normal, healthy lives.