For wildlife telemetry applications, antenna selection is critical to both performance and animal welfare. Total tracking equipment should not exceed 5% of the animal's body weight (3% for birds, 3-5% for reptiles and amphibians). The antenna diameter generally dictates strength, but flexibility, durability, and environmental resistance all influence long-term performance.

Understanding your species' behavior and habitat is essential. Some animals tend to chew on antennas, making durability paramount. If your animal is underwater frequently or lives in dense vegetation, antenna flexibility and coating become crucial factors.

Nitinol Antennas

Nitinol's superelastic properties allow up to 8% stretch without permanent damage and tensile strength up to 900-1100 MPa, crucial for animals that encounter vegetation, water, or physical obstacles. Its excellent corrosion resistance makes it ideal for both terrestrial and marine species.

1×7 Nitinol is the only Nitinol construction currently offered. Choose diameter based on the durability and weight tradeoff:

• 0.2mm — Lightweight option, best for small species where weight is critical
• 0.4mm — Balanced option for general use
• 0.6mm — High-durability option for larger species or harsher deployments
• 0.8mm — Heaviest Nitinol option, best reserved for maximum durability requirements

Key Decision Factors:

• Aggressive/social species: Choose 0.6mm or 0.8mm Nitinol for bite resistance
• Weight-sensitive species: Select 0.2mm Nitinol when weight is the limiting factor
• Long-term studies: Prioritize durability over minimal weight savings