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Synthesizing Motus Data Across the NERRS for Research, Education, and Conservation

Synthesizing Motus Data Across the NERRS for Research, Education, and Conservation

motus tower

This multi-reserve catalyst project built a collaborative community to strengthen the integration of research, education, and public engagement activities at reserves that use radio telemetry to track migratory species.

The Project

The Motus Wildlife Tracking System is an open-source, international network of community hosted radio-telemetry receivers that provide information on the presence and movements of migratory species, including birds, bats, insects, and turtles. There are a growing number of Motus stations within the NERRS. Animal movements recorded at these NERRS Motus stations help managers understand which species visit the reserves and reveal the connectedness of the NERRS as a whole. The increasing interest in tracking data from within and outside of the NERRS presents an opportunity to develop a collaborative community that supports the use of Motus stations within the NERRS.

This catalyst project worked with 18 reserves to enhance communication and collaboration among NERRS staff using Motus stations. In addition to the installation of four new Motus stations in priority locations, the project strengthened the integration of research, education, and public engagement programs across reserves with Motus stations. Project activities included exchanging technical knowledge and skills, developing educational resources, and consolidating Motus data across unique reserves. The wealth of interactive and customizable products developed during the project, including a comprehensive story map and an educational curriculum, has increased the usability and versatility of Motus data. This has created a launchpad for increasing the NERRS understanding of migratory species and building a more collaborative community of Motus users.

The Impact

  • Installed new Motus stations in four priority locations, providing essential data on migratory species that use the NERRS.
  • Fostered exchange of technical skills and knowledge among reserves with Motus stations.
  • Strengthened the usability of Motus data for research, education and engagement activities.