| Radiotelemetry is a valuable technique available to wildlife biologists. In some cases, it is the only known or logistically feasible approach to collect specific data to aid in the conservation of a rare species or address an important research question. However, the attachment of radiotransmitters to animals is not always without negative effects; in some cases, researchers may need ways to minimize potential impacts of transmitters on individuals while still obtaining data to answer research questions. The fisher (Pekania pennanti) is a species that presents challenges to radiocollar attachment due to its slender morphology, fluctuations in neck size of males by age and season, and inclination to use tight spaces and forested habitats with elements that can snag collars. During a long-term fisher study in the southern Sierra Nevada, we developed and used handmade breakaway devices that we attached to radiocollars in an effort to reduce potential neck injuries, provide opportunities for animals to break free from the collar if stuck, and eventually allow the collar to drop off if the animal was never recaptured. While the basic pattern and materials used were designed for fishers, this break-away pattern has the potential to be adapted for use with other species. |