What is a PTT?

A PTT (Platform Transmitter Terminal) is a small transmitter that sends a periodic signal to satellites orbiting the Earth. The satellites store these data and transmit this information to a processing center on the ground, where the locations of the signals are automatically calculated and sent to researchers throughout the world. The PTTs are powered by batteries, which may last several months to several years, based on how often the PTT transmits a signal. The PTTs are attached to plastic bands that are placed on the birds’ legs or attached to a harness that the birds wear like a backpack (right).