Effects of a subminiature radio collar on activity of free-living white-footed mice

Abstract

The effects of a subminiature (1.1 g) radio collar on activity of free-living Peromyscus leucopus were examined by comparing recapture frequency, persistence, apparent reproduction, body weight, and ranging activity of 43 collared and 304 uncollared mice. Although some differences between collar treatment groups were noted for most measures, no significant deleterious effects of wearing the radio collar were detected. Collared juveniles weighing from 12 to 16 g appeared to grow and mature similarly relative to uncollared juveniles.