Why Scientists Put Fitness Trackers on Herons
Published on
• Last modified on


Happy New Year! Like many people, you may be making a resolution to get fit in the New Year. You may have even received some fitness equipment or even a fitness tracker as a gift for the holidays.
But relax, this video isn’t about getting fit. But it does show how scientists are putting fitness trackers to use in a new way to provide new insights into animal behavior.
Watch the video below to learn more (after you watch you can work out)!
High school students are helping researchers at Lenoir-Rhyne University trap and tag herons with Fitbit-like devices and GPS monitors. The technology collects valuable data on where the birds are migrating, and how much energy they need throughout the year. The data can help inform conservation decisions.