
03 Apr Introducing the Denali S7: A New Standard for Seabird Telemetry
Wildlife Computers introduced the Denali‑S7, a next‑generation, solar‑powered Argos transmitter designed specifically for seabird research—bringing reliable global tracking to seabirds while prioritizing impact, ease of use, flexibility, and long‑term performance.
Designed to Minimize Impact on Birds
The Denali‑S7 features a minimally intrusive design, with a small, low‑profile form factor, rounded edges, and a strong yet pliable antenna. Together, these elements help reduce mass and drag, lower the risk of injury, and preserve natural behaviors—key considerations for long‑term seabird studies.
Solar‑Powered, Fully Automated Performance
Built for demanding field conditions, the Denali‑S7 uses solar‑powered automation to self‑adjust transmission effort based on available solar charge. This allows the tag to deliver consistent performance across seasons and environments, without requiring researchers to preconfigure duty cycles or predict sunlight in advance.
Flexible Attachment Options for Diverse Studies
Recognizing that no single attachment method fits every species or study, the Denali‑S7 supports flexible attachment options, including harness, suture, and tape deployments. Integrated mounting holes also allow for direct use or integration with preferred baseplates, enabling researchers to adapt the tag to a wide range of seabird species and research protocols.
Demonstrated Performance In The Field
The Denali‑S7 has undergone extensive lab and field testing, including deployments on demanding seabird species such as albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters. Waterproof construction tested to a depth of 400 meters further supports reliable use in marine and coastal environments.
Field trials have demonstrated strong real‑world performance. Twenty‑two Denali‑S7 tags were deployed across the USA, North Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand, spanning multiple species, life stages, and attachment methods. Adult bird deployments consistently met expectations, with long deployment durations—some exceeding 200 days—and minimal technical issues reported.
Results from fledgling and juvenile deployments are more limited but continue to inform best practices as evaluations progress. Overall, these trials highlight the Denali‑S7’s reliability and adaptability in diverse seabird research applications.
Resources for Researchers
To learn more about the Denali‑S7, including technical specifications, deployment options, and data management features, visit the Denali‑S7 product page on the Wildlife Computers website: Learn more about the Denali‑S7
