Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Tibbitts, T.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-0290-7592)
Douglas, D.C. (ORCID: 0000-0003-0186-1104)
20190918
Argos Satellite Tracking Data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta) - Processed Data
tabular digital data
Tracking Data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta)
ver 1.0, September 2019
Anchorage, Alaska
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
Suggested Citation: Hupp, J.W., Tibbitts, T.L., Douglas, D.C., 2019, Tracking data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta)(ver 1.0, September 2019): U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P90A6HW3
https://doi.org/10.5066/P90A6HW3
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
2019
USGS Alaska Science Center Wildlife Tracking Data Collection
website
Anchorage, Alaska (USA)
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
This is a link to the publicly released wildlife tracking data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Alaska Science Center. Users will find links to tracking data from other wildlife species.
https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
This metadata document describes the data contained in the "processedData" folder of this data package. This data package contains all data collected by the Argos System from 129 satellite transmitters attached to Northern Pintail ducks on their winter range in Japan, 2007-2009. The raw data were processed to accomplish two goals: flag implausible location estimates and decode raw sensor data. Three Comma Separate Value (CSV) tables are included in the "processedData" folder of this data package: 1) the "diag_filteredLocations" table contains one record for every location estimate collected, accompanied by a binary flag that denotes an algorithm's plausibility check. Each record also includes a 'Tracking_Status' variable that denotes whether the location was collected from a live animal, a dead animal, or shed transmitter, 2) the "decodedSensor" table contains decoded sensor data such as a transmitter's temperature, battery voltage, and motion (activity), and 3) the "deploymentAttributes" table contains one record for each transmitter deployment in a CSV formatted table. The deployment attributes file contains information such as when the transmitter was attached to the animal, when tracking of a live animal ended, and a variety of variables describing the animal and transmitter. This table is identical to the "deploymentAttributes" table in the "rawData" folder of this data package.
These data were collected to better understand the timing and patterns of migratory movements of Northern Pintails from wintering grounds in Japan as part of a project on the possible spread of Eurasian forms of avian influenza to North America.
Data users are advised to review the README and metadata documents to ensure proper use of the 'Deployment_Fate' and 'Tracking_Status' variables. Misuse or disregard of these variables could result in location data from dead animals or detached transmitters being incorrectly analyzed as data representing a live animal. Also note that, outlier values are not uncommon in the sensor data due to transmission parity errors introduced during satellite communications and no checksum values were embedded in the sensor messages to help screen for parity errors.
The deployment attributes and processed tracking data in this data package are also publicly available in Movebank (www.movebank.org) under a study entitled: "northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos".
20070211
20100805
observed
As needed
Japan and eastern Siberia
129.89
-179.83
71.19
35.10
USGS Metadata Identifier
USGS:ASC228
ISO 19115 Topic Category
Biota
Environment
NASA GCMD Earth Science Keywords Thesaurus
Biological Classification
Animals/Vertebrates
Birds
Ducks/Geese/Swans
Ecological Dynamics
Species Migration
Species Life History
USGS Biocomplexity Thesaurus
Distribution
Migration (organisms)
Migratory birds
Seasonal distribution
Seasonal movement
Overwintering
Breeding sites
Tracking equipment
USGS Thesaurus
Wildlife biology
Ornithology
Field methods
Field sampling
Animal tracking
Telemetry
None
Migration
Migration pathway
Migratory strategies
Wintering area
Breeding area
East Asia flyway
Satellite transmitter
Platform Transmitter Terminal
PTT
Argos
NGIA GeoNames
Japan
Hokkaido
Honshu
Izunuma
Iwate
Russia
Siberia
North Pacific Ocean
None
Single species
Animals
Vertebrates
Birds
Waterfowl
Northern Pintail
Integrated Taxonomic Information System
Unknown
Integrated Taxonomic Information System
database
ITIS
175074
online
ITIS-North America
Taxonomic details for Northern Pintail were retrieved 27 Aug 2019; from the Integrated Taxonomic Information System online database https://www.itis.gov
https://www.itis.gov
Species were identified by skilled observers in the field based on general appearance of feathers and plumage, behavior, and vocalization.
Taxonomy is completed for all samples. No voucher specimens were collected.
Kingdom
Animalia
Subkingdom
Bilateria
Infrakingdom
Deuterostomia
Phylum
Chordata
Subphylum
Vertebrata
Infraphylum
Gnathostomata
Superclass
Tetrapoda
Class
Aves
Order
Anseriformes
Family
Anatidae
Family
Anatinae
Genus
Anas
Species
Anas acuta
Northern Pintail
TSN: 175074
None.
It is requested that the authors and the USGS Alaska Science Center be cited for any subsequent publications referenced to this dataset.
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
mailing and physical
4210 University Drive
Anchorage
Alaska
99508
(907)786-7000
ascweb@usgs.gov
Yamaguchi, N.
Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Higuchi, H.
Flint, P.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8758-6993)
Pearce, J.M. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8503-5485)
2010
Satellite tracking of Northern Pintail Anas acuta during outbreaks of the H5N1 virus in Japan: implications for virus spread
journal article
Ibis
152(2):262-271
online
Wiley Online Library
Yamaguchi, N., Hupp, J.W., Higuchi, H., Flint, P.L., Pearce, J.M. 2010. Satellite tracking of Northern Pintail Anas acuta during outbreaks of the H5N1 virus in Japan: implications for virus spread. Ibis 152(2):262-271 doi:10.1111/j.1474-919X.2010.01010.x
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1474-919X.2010.01010.x
Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Yamaguchi, N.
Flint, P.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8758-6993)
Pearce, J.M. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8503-5485)
Tokita, K.
Shimada, T.
Ramey, A.M. (ORCID: 0000-0002-3601-8400)
Kharitonov, S.
Higuchi, H.
2011
Variation in spring migration routes and breeding distribution of northern pintails Anas acuta that winter in Japan
journal article
Journal of Avian Biology
42(4):289-300
online
American Ornithological Society
Hupp, J.W., Yamaguchi, N., Flint, P.L., Pearce, J.M., Tokita, K., Shimada, T., Ramey, A.M., Kharitonov, S., Higuchi, H. 2011. Variation in spring migration routes and breeding distribution of northern pintails Anas acuta that winter in Japan. Journal of Avian Biology 42(4):289-300 doi:10.1111/j.1600-048X.2011.05320.x
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-048X.2011.05320.x
Yamaguchi, N.
Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Flint, P.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8758-6993)
Pearce, J.M. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8503-5485)
Shigeta, Y.
Shimada, T.
Hiraoka, E.N.
Higuchi, H.
2012
Habitat use and movement patterns of Northern Pintails during spring in northern Japan: the importance of agricultural lands
journal article
Journal of Field Ornithology
83(2):141-153
online
Wiley Online Library
Yamaguchi, N., Hupp, J.W., Flint, P.L., Pearce, J.M., Shigeta, Y., Shimada, T., Hiraoka, E.N., Higuchi, H. 2012. Habitat use and movement patterns of Northern Pintails during spring in northern Japan: the importance of agricultural lands. Journal of Field Ornithology 83(2):141-153 doi:10.1111/j.1557-9263.2012.00364.x
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1557-9263.2012.00364.x
Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Kharitonov, S.
Yamaguchi, N.
Ozaki, K.
Flint, P.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8758-6993)
Pearce, J.M. (ORCID: 0000-0002-8503-5485)
Tokita, K.
Shimada, T.
Higuchi, H.
2015
Evidence that dorsally mounted satellite transmitters affect migration chronology of Northern Pintails
journal article
Journal of Ornithology
156(4):977-989
online
Springer Nature
Hupp, J.W., Kharitonov, S., Yamaguchi, N., Ozaki, K., Flint, P.L., Pearce, J.M., Tokita, K., Shimada, T., Higuchi, H. 2015. Evidence that dorsally mounted satellite transmitters affect migration chronology of Northern Pintails. Journal of Ornithology 156(4):977-989 doi:10.1007/s10336-015-1218-1
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10336-015-1218-1
Implausible location estimates were flagged using the Douglas Argos-filter (DAF). DAF is an ad-hoc algorithm that identifies implausible Argos location estimates based on user-defined thresholds which allows the algorithm's performance to be tuned to species' movement, behaviors, and study objectives. Key thresholds define: 1) the distance within which sequential location estimates are retained by virtue of self-validating spatial redundancy, 2) a maximum rate of movement, and 3) the acuity of tight turning angles which are characteristically created by location estimates with large errors. The actual thresholds that were applied are detailed in the "Douglas-Argos Filter" Process Step of this metadata record and in the README file included with the data package.
https://www.movebank.org/node/7226
https://www.movebank.org/node/38
Douglas, D.C.
Weinzierl, R.
Davidson, S.C.
Kays, R.
Wikelski, M.
Bohrer, G.
2012
Moderating Argos location errors in animal tracking data
journal article
Methods in Ecology and Evolution
3:999-1007
online
John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
Douglas, D.C., Weinzierl, R., Davidson, S.C., Kays, R., Wikelski, M., Bohrer, G. 2012. Moderating Argos location errors in animal tracking data. Methods in Ecology and Evolution 3:999-1007. doi:10.1111/j.2041-210X.2012.00245.x
https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2041-210X.2012.00245.x
Most attributes associated with the location data were acquired directly from the Argos System. Accuracy of the location filtering flag ('Location_DAF_Filter') is vulnerable to omission/commission errors as described in Douglas et al 2012. Accuracy of the 'Deployment_Fate' and 'Tracking_Status' variables is sensitive to the type of data available; for example, temperature data from implanted transmitters provide a definitive measure of animal mortality, while an integrated interpretation of sensor and movement data is required to determine whether externally attached transmitters show evidence of mortality or transmitter detachment. Transmission parity errors (misrepresentations of 1's and 0's introduced during earth-to-satellite communication) occur and should be expected when analyzing sensor data. No checksum values were embedded in the sensor messages to help screen for parity errors. Users are advised to interpret just the dominant patterns among the sensor data values and be skeptical of any values that appear to be outliers.
All values are consistent with animal tracking data obtained by the Argos System. Files included in this data package may contain data obtained post-mortality or post-detachment. For analyses of live free-ranging animals, care must be exercised to use only those data records collected on or before the deployment end time stamp (provided in the "deploymentAttributes" table included with the data package). Data users are additionally advised that outlier values are not uncommon in decoded sensor data due to transmission parity errors introduced during satellite communications. Blank cells indicate attributes that were not collected or not determined.
These data comprise the complete set of transmissions collected by the Argos satellite system from satellite transmitters described in the "deploymentAttributes" table. Temporal gaps in the tracking data time series are intrinsic to the Argos System due to the intermittent coverage of orbiting satellites. Additional temporal gaps are often intentionally introduced by transmitting intermittently to conserve power (i.e., duty cycles). Unintentional data gaps can be introduced by many factors such as insufficient power, antenna damage, or animal behavior and habitat. The filtering of implausible location estimates also contributes to temporal gaps.
Location estimates determined by the Argos System have a 1-sigma (68% of locations) accuracy range of 250-1500 m (see Argos Manual 2008 - included with this data package; Douglas et al 2012 and references therein).
Lab
Transmissions from satellite transmitters were received by the Argos satellite system and relayed to ground based processing centers. Location estimates were derived by Argos based on Doppler principles. Final data were disseminated to the U.S. Geological Survey as text files containing location and raw (coded) sensor data.
Hupp, J.W. (ORCID: 0000-0002-6439-3910)
Tibbitts, T.L. (ORCID: 0000-0002-0290-7592)
Douglas, D.C. (ORCID: 0000-0003-0186-1104)
2019
Argos Satellite Tracking Data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta) - Raw Data
tabular digital data; ASCII text file
Tracking Data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta)
ver 1.0, September 2019
Anchorage, Alaska
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
Hupp, J.W., Tibbitts, T.L., Douglas, D.C., 2019, Tracking data for Northern Pintails (Anas acuta)(ver 1.0, September 2019): U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P90A6HW3
https://doi.org/10.5066/P90A6HW3
document
2019
publication date
Hupp et al 2019
Raw satellite telemetry data as received from Argos. Available in the rawData folder included with this data package.
CLS America
2008
Argos User’s Manual
document
online
CLS America
CLS America. 2008. Argos user’s manual. *note: as a courtesy to users (in agreement with CLS America), this manual is included in this data package and can be accessed from: https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
document
2008
publication date
Argos Manual 2008
User manual and definitions of Argos Satellite System.
Microwave Telemetry, Inc
unknown
Microwave Telemetry: Solar PTT-100 Field Manual
document
Columbia, Maryland, USA
Microwave Telemetry, Inc.
Microwave Telemetry: Solar PTT-100 Field Manual. *note: as a courtesy to users (in agreement with Microwave Telemetry, Inc.), this manual is included in this data package and can be accessed from: https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
document
unknown
publication date
MTI Solar PTT-100 Manual
User manual and definitions for Microwave Telemetry Solar PTT-100 satellite transmitters.
Microwave Telemetry, Inc
unknown
Microwave Telemetry: Battery Powered PTT-100 Field Manual
document
Columbia, Maryland, USA
Microwave Telemetry, Inc.
Microwave Telemetry: Battery Powered PTT-100 Field Manual. *note: as a courtesy to users (in agreement with Microwave Telemetry, Inc.), this manual is included in this data package and can be accessed from: https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
https://doi.org/10.5066/P9VYSWEH
document
unknown
publication date
MTI Battery PTT-100 Manual
User manual and definitions for Microwave Telemetry Li battery PTT-100 satellite transmitters.
Douglas, D.C.
Weinzierl, R.
Davidson, S.C.
Kays, R.
Wikelski, M.
Bohrer, G.
2012
Moderating Argos location errors in animal tracking data
journal article
Methods in Ecology and Evolution
3:999-1007
Online
John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
Douglas, D.C., Weinzierl, R., Davidson, S.C., Kays, R., Wikelski, M., Bohrer, G. 2012. Moderating Argos location errors in animal tracking data. Methods in Ecology and Evolution 3:999-1007 doi:10.1111/j.2041-210X.2012.00245.x
https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2041-210X.2012.00245.x
journal article
2012
publication date
Douglas et al 2012
Describes the use of the "Douglas Argos Filter" (DAF) for flagging implausible locations.
Data Collection. Argos raw data in both "DS" and "DIAG" legacy formats were extracted from monthly datasets provided by Service Argos (a.k.a. CLS America or Woods Hole Group) on CD-ROM. Beginning in July 2009, both DS and DIAG data were obtained from Service Argos on CD-ROM in tabular format as Comma Separated Value (CSV) files. The tabular files contain all information reported in the Argos legacy file formats. The tabular DIAG files also include variables describing the Argos error ellipse (beginning in July 2009). Tabular DIAG data files before July 2009 (if applicable) were reformatted directly from the legacy DIAG files, and hence do not contain the error ellipse variables.
Unknown
Data Flattening. The raw tabular files have had additional attributes appended by the authors to each record (including 'Animal_ID', 'Animal_Species' and 'Tracking_Status').
Unknown
Determination of Deployment Fate and Tracking Status. Location and sensor data were examined for each record to assign the value of the 'Deployment_Fate' and 'Tracking_Status' variables. Details are described in the attribute definitions, below.
Unknown
Douglas Argos-Filter. Implausible location estimates were flagged using the Douglas Argos-filter (DAF) as implemented in Movebank. DAF is an ad-hoc algorithm that identifies implausible Argos location estimates based on user-defined thresholds which allows the algorithm's performance to be tuned to species' movement, behaviors, and study objectives. Key thresholds define: 1) the distance within which sequential location estimates are retained by virtue of self-validating spatial redundancy, 2) a maximum rate of movement, and 3) the acuity of tight turning angles which are characteristically created by location estimates with large errors.
Definitions of the DAF parameters can be found in the filtering help pages at Movebank.com and Douglas et al 2012. The user-defined DAF parameters applied to these data were:
Filter Method = Best Hybrid; keep_lc=1; maxredun=10; offset by one second=True; keeplast=disabled; skiploc=disabled; minrate=130; r_only=disabled; ratecoef=15; xmigrate=2; xoverrun=1.5; xdirect=20; xangle=150; xpercent=20; testp_0a=2; testp_bz=3; Best of Day filter=disabled
Unknown
Deployment location site names are derived from geographic names in the USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) or the NGIA GeoNames System. They represent discrete capture areas.
Point
0.001
0.001
Decimal degrees
World Geodetic System of 1984
World Geodetic System of 1984
6378137
298.257223563
northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_deploymentAttributes
Table containing details about each satellite transmitter (PTT - Platform Transmitter Terminal) and its deployment. PTT data include manufacturer, model, and PTT ID. Animal data include: animal ID, deployment dates, and attributes of the animal if recorded (e.g., sex, age, weight, etc). Presented in a Comma Separated Value (CSV) formatted table. A copy of the "deploymentAttributes" table is also included in the "rawData" folder with this data package.
Author defined
Data_Release_DOI
Unique 'Digital Object Identifier' (DOI) that provides a permanent link to this data package and its metadata.
Author defined
10.5066/P90A6HW3
The DOI that links uniquely to this data package.
Author defined
Data_Release_Version
The data package version that was current at the time each record was released. The structure of this data package can accommodate future versions that add additional tracking data for existing or newly tracked individuals of the same species. See version history file included with this data package for additional details.
Author defined
v01
Version 1.0
Author defined
Animal_ID
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Animal_Species
Scientific name of the species of animal tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Anas acuta
Scientific name for Northern Pintail
Author defined
PTT_ID
PTT (Platform Transmitter Terminal) ID number from Argos to uniquely identify a satellite transmitter during deployment.
Provided by Argos
Unique 4-5 digit identifier of the satellite transmitter.
Deployment_Start_Timestamp_UTC
The timestamp (date and time) when the satellite transmitter (PTT) deployment started.
Author defined
2007/02/11 00:01:00
2009/02/09 03:01:00
YYYY/MM/DD HH:mm:ss (UTC)
Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC
The timestamp (date and time) when the satellite transmitter (PTT) deployment ended.
Author defined
2007/02/22 19:28:00
2010/07/19 22:20:00
YYYY/MM/DD HH:mm:ss (UTC)
Deployment_Fate
Deduced final status of the animal and satellite transmitter (PTT) at the time tracking of the live free-ranging animal ended (i.e., animal died, transmitter failed/detached, or tracking of a live animal was otherwise terminated). Determined by assessment of sensor and movement data. For example, activity sensor values that remain constant, temperature sensor values that emulate ambient conditions, and/or lack of expected movement.
Author defined
alive
Coded if there was no evidence or knowledge that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed. The 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC' was set to the date/time of the last obtained transmission from the PTT or shortly thereafter.
Author defined
shed
Coded only if the animal was later re-observed alive without an attached satellite transmitter. The 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC' was set to the date/time of the most recently obtained transmitter data indicative of attachment to the live free-ranging animal. Raw Argos data are included (if available) for up to 6 months beyond that date to preserve any information after the shed/dead event (i.e., 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC').
Author defined
dead
Coded only if: 1) a carcass was observed or reported (e.g., harvested), 2) an implanted satellite transmitter showed an implausible temperature for a warm-blooded animal, or 3) an externally attached satellite transmitter with an attachment method that was very unlikely to fail/shed showed stationary movement data. The 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC' was set to the date/time of the most recently obtained transmitter data indicative of attachment to the live free-ranging animal. Raw Argos data are included (if available) for up to 6 months beyond that date to preserve any information after the shed/dead event (i.e., 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC').
Author defined
shed/dead
Coded if there was evidence that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed, but distinction was ambiguous. The 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC' was set to the date/time of the most recently obtained transmitter data indicative of attachment to the live free-ranging animal. Raw Argos data are included (if available) for up to 6 months beyond that date to preserve any information after the shed/dead event (i.e., 'Deployment_End_Timestamp_UTC').
Author defined
undetermined
Coded if there was no assessment of mortality or satellite transmitter detachment. Data users will have to make their own assessments.
Author defined
Deployment_End_Type
A deduced reason for the satellite transmitter (PTT) deployment termination.
Author defined
acute temperature drop
For exterior satellite transmitter attachments; a distinct drop in the transmitter's temperature sensor data suggesting the animal's body temperature is no longer contributing to elevating temperature above ambient conditions (unreliable in warm climates). This classification implies animal mortality or transmitter detachment.
Author defined
implant temperature drop
For implanted satellite transmitters; a distinct drop in the transmitter's temperature sensor data documenting mortality of warm-blooded animals carrying a transmitter that was implanted in its body cavity. This classification implies animal mortality with high certainty.
Author defined
voltage drop
A drop in voltage sensor data indicative of forthcoming battery exhaustion. This classification implies normal satellite transmitter failure while the animal remained alive.
Author defined
activity flatlines
Activity sensor value remained near constant for an extended period of time. This classification implies animal mortality or satellite transmitter detachment.
Author defined
data acquisitions stop
Data collection stopped without evidence of battery failure, mortality, or satellite transmitter detachment. Owing to the absence of any evidence to the contrary, this classification implies that the animal was alive at the time data collections stopped.
Author defined
known mortality
A carcass was observed or reported (e.g., harvested).
Author defined
Blank Cell
No deployment end type information provided.
Author defined
Deployment_Start_Latitude
The latitude of the deployment site where the animal was released.
Author defined
38.713
43.542
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Deployment_Start_Longitude
The longitude of the deployment site where the animal was released.
Author defined
140.983
145.235
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Deployment_Start_Locale
The name of the deployment site where the animal fitted with the satellite transmitter (PTT) was released, for example a field station or colony.
Author defined
Izunuma
Name used for a capture site in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.
NGIA GeoNames
Shizukuishi
Name used for a capture site in Iwate Prefecture, Japan.
NGIA GeoNames
Notsuke
Name used for a capture site in Nemuro Prefecture, Japan.
NGIA GeoNames
Animal_BandID
Unique identifying marker attached to an individual animal (such as a numbered tarsal band).
Author defined
Blank Cell
No marker information provided.
Author defined
Animal_Sex
The sex of the animal determined by size and plumage characteristics in the field.
Author defined
F
Female
Author defined
M
Male
Author defined
Animal_LifeStage
The age class or life stage of the animal at the start of the deployment.
Author defined
AHY
After Hatch Year. A bird known to have hatched before the year of satellite transmitter deployment; year of hatch otherwise unknown.
Author defined
HY
Hatch Year. A bird known to have hatched in the year of satellite transmitter deployment.
Author defined
Animal_ReproCondition
The reproductive condition of the animal at the start of the satellite transmitter deployment.
Author defined
Blank Cell
Animals captured during non-breeding season.
Author defined
Animal_Mass
The mass of the animal at the time of the satellite transmitter attachment.
Author defined
626
1295
grams
Animal_MortalityType
If deployment ended because of animal mortality; the cause of mortality if known or confidently suspected.
Author defined
hunting
Reported as shot by hunter.
Author defined
Blank Cell
Mortality type not determined.
Author defined
PTT_Manufacturer
The company or person that produced the satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Microwave Telemetry Inc.
Microwave Telemetry, Inc., Columbia, MD, USA
Author defined
PTT_Model
The manufacturer's model number of the satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
PTT-100
Microwave Telemetry model: "Solar PTT-100" or "Battery Powered PTT-100".
Microwave Telemetry, Inc.
PTT_Mass
The mass of the satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
20
Transmitter weighs 20 grams.
Author defined
between 12 to 20 grams
Transmitter weighs between 12 to 20 grams.
Author defined
PTT_Attachment
The method used to attach the satellite transmitter (PTT) to the animal.
Author defined
harness
Custom made and individually fit at the time of the satellite transmitter deployment.
Author defined
PTT_PowerOutput
The amount of power dedicated by the satellite transmitter (PTT) to each transmission.
Author defined
200
200
milliwatt (mW)
PTT_PowerSource
Indicates whether the satellite transmitter (PTT) was powered by Li batteries or solar rechargeable Li batteries.
Author defined
Solar
Satellite transmitter (PTT) was powered by solar rechargeable batteries.
Author defined
Battery
Satellite transmitter (PTT) was powered by Li batteries.
Author defined
PTT_RepetitionPeriod
Nominal interval between PTT transmissions.
Author defined
60
60
seconds
PTT_DutyCycle
Remarks describing the satellite transmitter (PTT) schedule and duration of transmission and non-transmission periods.
Author defined
10 hours ON and either 14 or 24 hours OFF
PTT transmitted for 10 hours followed by 14 or 24 hours of not transmitting.
Author defined
6 hours ON and 72 hours OFF
PTT transmitted for 6 hours followed by 72 hours of not transmitting.
Author defined
PTT_ReadoutMethod
The method by which the data are received from the satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Argos System
Data received by Argos.
Argos Manual 2008
PTT_LocationAlgorithm
The method by which Argos calculated location of the satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Least squares analysis
Least squares regression fit of a Doppler curve obtained from the perceived (shifted) frequencies of transmissions obtained as the satellite flew over the satellite transmitter (i.e., approaching, then retreating).
Argos Manual 2008
Kalman filter
In 2011, Argos (CLS) introduced a location processing algorithm that takes into account platform dynamics and the use of a bank of Kalman filters to calculate positions. The applied Kalman filtering is a 2-step process: 1) the filter predicts the next position and its estimated error based on the previous position and its estimated error with a movement model; and 2) the filter calculates the new position and its estimated error by updating the predicted position using frequency measurements acquired during the satellite pass. Locations estimated by the Kalman filter method are also accompanied by metrics describing an estimated error ellipse.
Argos Manual 2011
northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_diag_filteredLocations
This table contains all records from the raw Argos DIAG tabular data included with this package, except that records with missing locations have been removed. Additionally, three variables were added after processing with the Douglas Argos Filter (DAF) algorithm (Douglas et al 2012). The three variables are: 1 & 2) 'Latitude' & 'Longitude', the algorithm's choice between the primary and alternate latitudes and longitudes (Argos Solution 1 and Solution 2) based on minimizing the animal's cumulative distance moved, and 3) 'Location_DAF_Filter', a binary flag indicating whether the location is plausible (=0)or implausible (=1). For records dated after the 'Deployment_End_Timestamp' (i.e., locations after an animal has died or a transmitter has been shed), location coordinates are presented in the 'Lat_ShedDead' and 'Lon_ShedDead' columns and no values are provided for 'Latitude' and 'Longitude'. All data are presented in a Comma Separated Value (CSV) formatted table.
Author defined
Data_Release_DOI
Unique 'Digital Object Identifier' (DOI) that provides a permanent link to this data package and its metadata.
Author defined
10.5066/P90A6HW3
The DOI that links uniquely to this data package.
Author defined
Data_Release_Version
The data package version that was current at the time each record was released. The structure of this data package can accommodate future versions that add additional tracking data for existing or newly tracked individuals of the same species. See version history file included with this data package for additional details.
Author defined
v01
Version 1.0
Author defined
Animal_ID
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Animal_Species
Scientific name of the species of animal tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Anas acuta
Scientific name for Northern Pintail
Author defined
Location_Timestamp_UTC
The UTC timestamp (date and time) of the satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate.
Provided by Argos
2007/02/13 02:16:52
2010/08/03 09:17:45
YYYY/MM/DD HH:mm:ss (UTC)
Latitude
The latitude of the satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate. Chosen by the Douglas Argos Filter (DAF) from the primary and alternate latitudes ('Location_Lat_Solution_1' vs 'Location_Lat_Solution_2'). See the Douglas Argos Filter process step.
Douglas et al 2012
-78.158
79.72
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Blank Cell
A 'Blank Cell' indicates a satellite transmitter (PTT) was no longer deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'shed', 'dead', or 'shed/dead'). Note that when this occurs, the latitude of the location estimate is recorded in the 'Lat_ShedDead' variable.
Author defined
Longitude
The longitude of the satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate. Chosen by the Douglas Argos Filter (DAF) from the primary and alternate longitudes ('Location_Lon_Solution_1' vs 'Location_Lon_Solution_2'). See the Douglas Argos Filter process step.
Douglas et al 2012
-179.995
179.999
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Blank Cell
A 'Blank Cell' indicates a satellite transmitter (PTT) was no longer deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'shed', 'dead', or 'shed/dead'). Note that when this occurs, the longitude of the location estimate is recorded in the 'Lon_ShedDead' variable.
Author defined
Location_DAF_Filter
Result of the Douglas Argos filter (DAF) algorithm plausibility check. The binary variable indicates a plausible (=0) or implausible (=1) satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate based on user-defined thresholds pertaining to distance, movement rate, and turn angle. See the Douglas Argos Filter process step.
Douglas et al 2012
1
Implausible location estimate
Douglas et al 2012
0
Plausible location estimate
Douglas et al 2012
Location_Class
Index of the accuracy of the location estimate; in decreasing order: 3,2,1,0,A,B,Z. The raw DIAG data from the Argos System provides two location estimates ('primary' and 'alternate'). Different algorithms have been used to estimate location. The Least Squares algorithm provides two different locations, with the 'primary' assumed to better reflect the actual PTT location. However, in approximately 1-3% of cases, the 'alternate' location is more accurate. For these processed data the DAF algorithm has been applied to rectify incorrect choices between the 'primary' and 'alternate' location estimate. The Kalman Filter provides two identical location estimates. Note that the algorithm used for each PTT deployment is recorded in the "deploymentAttributes" table included with this data package.
Argos Manual 2008
3
1-sigma location error <250 meters.
Argos Manual 2008
2
1-sigma location error between 250 meters and 500 meters.
Argos Manual 2008
1
1-sigma location error between 500 meters and 1500 meters.
Argos Manual 2008
0
1-sigma location error >1500 meters
Argos Manual 2008
A
No accuracy estimation; 3 messages received per satellite pass.
Argos Manual 2008
B
No accuracy estimation; 1 or 2 messages received per satellite pass.
Argos Manual 2008
Z
No accuracy estimation; invalid location.
Argos Manual 2008
Location_NOPC
Number of Plausibility Checks that gave a positive result. Plausibility checks are conducted by Argos when the satellite transmitter location is estimated and are used by the algorithm when classifying the location accuracy in the Location_Class attribute.
Argos Manual 2008
0
4
count
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_ErrorRadius
Estimated radius of the error-ellipse around the satellite transmitter's location. The error-ellipse defines a region within which the transmitter’s true location would have a 63.3% probability of occurrence (drawn from a bivariate normal distribution to lie within its SQRT(2)sigma ellipse). Calculated as: SQRT(Semimajor_Axis x Semiminor_Axis). Not available for data before July 2009.
Argos Manual 2008
0
886772
meters
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_ErrorSemimajor
Half the length of the longest axis of the estimated error-ellipse of the satellite transmitter location. Not available for data before July 2009.
Argos Manual 2008
0
998823
meters
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_ErrorSemiminor
Half the length of the shortest axis of the estimated error-ellipse of the satellite transmitter location. Not available for data before July 2009.
Argos Manual 2008
0
636841
meters
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_ErrorOrientation
Geographic orientation of the major axis of the estimated error-ellipse of the satellite transmitter location. Not available for data before July 2009.
Argos Manual 2008
0
179
degrees
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_ErrorGDOP
Geometric Dilution of Precision. A measure of the effect of the geometry of the satellite transmitter's configuration on the accuracy of the location estimate. The actual location accuracy depends on both the GDOP value and the quality of the transmitter’s frequency stability. Generally, a smaller GDOP value yields a more accurate position.
Argos Manual 2008
0
918708
meters/Hertz
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_IndexQuality
A "Quality Indicator" from Argos. A composite of two single digits, each of which denotes a categorical variable describing parameters that Argos considers when assigning the Location_Class to the location estimate. The parameters describe long-, mid-, and short-term frequency shifts in the received transmissions. The first digit indicates the residual error on the frequency calculation. The second digit indicates transmitter oscillator frequency drift between two satellite overpasses. Single digit values imply a zero for the first digit.
Argos Manual 2008
0
68
coded index
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_LI_Index
A legacy variant of the 'Location_IndexQuality' attribute used from July 1989 to mid-June 1993 (when IndexQuality, IQ, was introduced).
Author defined
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_QQ_Index
A legacy variant of the 'Location_IndexQuality' attribute used from February 1988 to June 1989.
Author defined
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_AssumedAltitude
Assumed altitude of the satellite transmitter (PTT). Used for estimating the location.
Argos Manual 2008
0.000
5.164
kilometers
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Location_Lat_Solution_1
The latitude of the satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate (Argos Solution 1).
Provided by Argos
-80.375
88.497
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Location_Lon_Solution_1
The longitude of the satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate (Argos Solution 1).
Provided by Argos
-179.995
179.999
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Location_Lat_Solution_2
The latitude of the alternate satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate (Argos Solution 2).
Provided by Argos
-88.017
89.774
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Location_Lon_Solution_2
The longitude of the alternate satellite transmitter (PTT) location estimate (Argos Solution 2).
Provided by Argos
-180.000
179.999
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
PTT_ID
PTT (Platform Transmitter Terminal) ID number from Argos to uniquely identify a satellite transmitter during deployment.
Provided by Argos
Unique 4-5 digit identifier of the satellite transmitter.
PTT_Program
Argos Program identifier
Provided by Argos
Unique 4 digit identifier of the particular Argos programs used.
Tracking_Status
Deduced status of the animal and satellite transmitter (PTT) at the time of the respective data record. Determined by assessment of sensor and movement data. For example, activity sensor values that remain constant, temperature sensor values that emulate ambient conditions, and/or lack of expected movement.
Author defined
alive
Coded if there was no evidence or knowledge that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed.
Author defined
shed
Coded only if the animal was later re-observed alive without an attached satellite transmitter.
Author defined
dead
Coded only if: 1) a carcass was observed or reported (e.g., harvested), 2) an implanted satellite transmitter showed an implausible temperature for a warm-blooded animal, or 3) an externally attached satellite transmitter with an attachment method that was very unlikely to fail/shed showed stationary movement data.
Author defined
shed/dead
Coded if there was evidence that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed, but distinction was ambiguous.
Author defined
undetermined
Coded if there was no assessment of mortality or satellite transmitter detachment. Data users will have to make their own assessments.
Author defined
Lat_ShedDead
The latitude of a satellite transmitter (PTT) that is no longer deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'shed', 'dead', or 'shed/dead'). Chosen by the Douglas Argos Filter (DAF) from the primary and alternate latitudes ('Location_Lat_Solution_1' vs 'Location_Lat_Solution_2').
Douglas et al 2012
2.374
69.981
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Blank Cell
The satellite transmitter (PTT) is deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'alive'). The latitude of the location estimate can be found in the 'Latitude' column.
Author defined
Lon_ShedDead
The longitude of a satellite transmitter (PTT) that is no longer deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'shed', 'dead', or 'shed/dead'). Chosen by the Douglas Argos Filter (DAF) from the primary and alternate longitudes ('Location_Lon_Solution_1' vs 'Location_Lon_Solution_2').
Douglas et al 2012
-179.803
178.415
Decimal degrees (WGS84)
Blank Cell
The satellite transmitter (PTT) is deployed on a live free-ranging animal (i.e., 'Tracking_Status' is 'alive'). The longitude of the location estimate can be found in the 'Longitude' column.
Author defined
Pass_Satellite_ID
The satellite identifier (MA, MB, NK, NL, NM, NN, NP, SR).
Provided by Argos
MA
MetOp satellite: METOP-A
Provided by Argos
MB
MetOp satellite: METOP-B
Provided by Argos
NK
NOAA satellite: NOAA-15
Provided by Argos
NL
NOAA satellite: NOAA-16
Provided by Argos
NM
NOAA satellite: NOAA-17
Provided by Argos
NN
NOAA satellite: NOAA-18
Provided by Argos
NP
NOAA satellite: NOAA-19
Provided by Argos
SR
ISRO CNES satellite: SARAL
Provided by Argos
Pass_Messages_N
The number of messages from the transmitter (PTT) received by the respective satellite during its overpass.
Argos Manual 2008
1
16
count
Pass_Messages_gt120dB
The number of messages from the transmitter (PTT) received by the respective satellite during its overpass with a signal strength (at the satellite) greater than -120 decibels.
Argos Manual 2008
0
8
count
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Pass_Messages_BestLeveldB
Strength (at the satellite) of the strongest transmission from the transmitter (PTT) collected during the respective satellite’s overpass.
Argos Manual 2008
-140
-107
decibels
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
Pass_Duration
Time elapsed between the first and last message from the transmitter (PTT) received by the respective satellite during its overpass. A value of zero implies only one message was received during the overpass.
Argos Manual 2008
0
1083
seconds
Pass_EstimatedFrequency
Estimate of the satellite transmitter's true transmission (oscillator) frequency that strives to account for long-term frequency drift during the course of the transmitter’s deployment that is apparent to the Argos System.
Argos Manual 2008
401550000.0
401750000.0
Hertz
Blank Cell
Attribute value not provided for this record.
Author defined
northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_decodedSensor
This file contains all decoded sensor data derived from the raw Argos DS data included with this package. Each record contains three decoded variables (temperature, voltage, and activity) as well as identifying attributes of the satellite transmitter (PTT) and animal. To minimize decoding diagnostic messages that were embedded into every 4th transmission from the PTTs used in this study, decoded values were calculated from raw data and written to this file only if 'Sensor_1' > 24 and 'Sensor_2' > 66 and 'Sensor_3' not = 0. Presented in a Comma Separated Value (CSV) formatted table.
Author defined
Data_Release_DOI
Unique 'Digital Object Identifier' (DOI) that provides a permanent link to this data package and its metadata.
Author defined
10.5066/P90A6HW3
The DOI that links uniquely to this data package.
Author defined
Data_Release_Version
The data package version that was current at the time each record was released. The structure of this data package can accommodate future versions that add additional tracking data for existing or newly tracked individuals of the same species. See version history file included with this data package for additional details.
Author defined
v01
Version 1.0
Author defined
Animal_ID
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Unique identifier for each individual tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Animal_Species
Scientific name of the species of animal tracked with a satellite transmitter (PTT).
Author defined
Anas acuta
Scientific name for Northern Pintail
Author defined
Tracking_Status
Deduced status of the animal and satellite transmitter (PTT) at the time of the respective data record. Determined by assessment of sensor and movement data. For example, activity sensor values that remain constant, temperature sensor values that emulate ambient conditions, and/or lack of expected movement.
Author defined
alive
Coded if there was no evidence or knowledge that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed.
Author defined
shed
Coded only if the animal was later re-observed alive without an attached satellite transmitter.
Author defined
dead
Coded only if: 1) a carcass was observed or reported (e.g., harvested), 2) an implanted satellite transmitter showed an implausible temperature for a warm-blooded animal, or 3) an externally attached satellite transmitter with an attachment method that was very unlikely to fail/shed showed stationary movement data.
Author defined
shed/dead
Coded if there was evidence that the animal died or the satellite transmitter was shed, but distinction was ambiguous.
Author defined
undetermined
Coded if there was no assessment of mortality or satellite transmitter detachment. Data users will have to make their own assessments.
Author defined
PTT_ID
PTT (Platform Transmitter Terminal) ID number from Argos to uniquely identify a satellite transmitter during deployment.
Provided by Argos
Unique 4-5 digit identifier of the satellite transmitter.
PTT_Program
Argos Program identifier
Provided by Argos
Unique 4 digit identifier of the particular Argos programs used.
Pass_Satellite_ID
The satellite identifier (A, B, K, L, M, N, P, R).
Provided by Argos
A
MetOp satellite: METOP-A
Provided by Argos
B
MetOp satellite: METOP-B
Provided by Argos
K
NOAA satellite: NOAA-15
Provided by Argos
L
NOAA satellite: NOAA-16
Provided by Argos
M
NOAA satellite: NOAA-17
Provided by Argos
N
NOAA satellite: NOAA-18
Provided by Argos
P
NOAA satellite: NOAA-19
Provided by Argos
R
ISRO CNES satellite: SARAL
Provided by Argos
Sensor_Timestamp_UTC
The timestamp (date and time) of each message from each satellite transmitter (PTT), corresponding to the time when the temperature, voltage, and activity sensors were interrogated.
Provided by Argos
2007/02/13 02:14:32
2010/08/05 00:18:51
YYYY/MM/DD HH:mm:ss (UTC)
Sensor_Temperature_C
The internal temperature of the satellite transmitter (PTT) measured just prior to transmission.
MTI Solar PTT-100 Manual, MTI Battery PTT-100 Manual
-19.66
63.35
Degrees Celsius
Sensor_Voltage
The battery voltage of the satellite transmitter (PTT) just prior to signal transmission.
MTI Solar PTT-100 Manual, MTI Battery PTT-100 Manual
3.501
4.423
Volts
Sensor_Activity
The activity assessed by a revolving counter that increments with changes in satellite transmitter (PTT) orientation. The value itself does not have meaning, rather, it is the change in value (or lack thereof) that indicates animal (transmitter) movement (or not).
MTI Solar PTT-100 Manual, MTI Battery PTT-100 Manual
0
255
count
The processData package includes 3 Comma Separate Value (CSV) formatted tables:
(1) "northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_diag_filteredLocations.csv" contains one record for every location estimate collected, accompanied by a binary flag that denotes an algorithm's plausibility check. Each record also includes a 'Tracking_Status' variable that denotes whether the location was collected from a live animal, a dead animal, or shed transmitter.
(2) "northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_decodedSensor.csv" contains decoded sensor data such as a transmitter's temperature, battery voltage, and motion (activity).
(3) "northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos_deploymentAttributes.csv" contains one record for each transmitter deployment. The deployment attributes table contains information such as when the transmitter was attached to the animal, when tracking of a live animal ended, and variables describing the animal and transmitter.
Argos Manual 2008
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
mailing and physical
4210 University Dr.
Anchorage
AK
99508
USA
907-786-7000
ascweb@usgs.gov
Authoritative source for access to these data.
Unless otherwise stated, all data, metadata and related materials are considered to satisfy the quality standards relative to the purpose for which the data were collected. Although these data and associated metadata have been reviewed for accuracy and completeness and approved for release by the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the display or utility of the data on any other system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty.
Zip
19.0
Zip file containing the data in CSV and ASCII text file formats and FGDC metadata in XML and HTML formats.
Winzip legacy compression applied
https://doi.org/10.5066/P90A6HW3
None
Movebank
mailing and physical
Max Planck Institute for Ornithology
Schloßallee 2
Radolfzell
Baden-Württemberg
78315
Germany
49(0)7732 1501-1
info@orn.mpg.de
Alternative distributor of the processed tracking data.
The U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center is the authoritative source and distributor of these data. To facilitate discovery and access to these data, a copy of the deployment attributes and processed tracking data is also made available through Movebank. The U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center is not responsible for any problems associated with the accuracy, maintenance, or integrity of the Movebank version of these data.
CSV
https://www.movebank.org/
None
Publicly available as Tracking Data from www.movebank.org, in the study entitled: "northernPintail_USGS_ASC_argos"
20201125
U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center
mailing and physical
4210 University Drive
Anchorage
AK
99508
USA
907-786-7000
ascweb@usgs.gov
FGDC Biological Data Profile of the Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata
FGDC-STD-001.1-1999