For the first time, GPS tracking used from February to December 2024 studied Chestnut Teal, providing valuable insights into their behaviour.
GPS followed the movements and habitat use of Chestnut Teal in the CLLMM region to better understand where these ducks travel, and how they use different habitats throughout the day.
In May 2024, twelve Chestnut Teal were caught in the Coorong using walk-in traps baited with grain and placed along the shoreline. Once captured, each Chestnut Teal was fitted with a lightweight, solar-powered GPS device secured with a small backpack-style harness. These devices tracked their movements for up to three months, providing insights into how they navigate their environment.
The data revealed some interesting patterns about Chestnut Teal
• movement differed depending on the time of day
• males travelled further than females
• males spent more time in the water
• females more frequently found on the shore.
Future research will focus on tracking these ducks for longer periods—potentially across an entire year—to understand how their movements change seasonally.
Chestnut tales: GPS tracking Chestnut Teal movements in the Coorong
Click on the infographic below to view the movements of the longest-tracked Chestnut Teal and more.
Thesis
To learn more about this study click the button below to read Freya's Thesis.
Researcher Profile
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