New tools for insect tracking

We offer advanced harmonic radar–based tracking systems for monitoring insects and other small invertebrates that cannot carry conventional telemetry tags. Our approach combines miniaturised passive harmonic tags (≈2–3 mg) with complementary radar platforms:
(i) a stationary scanning harmonic radar for continuous area-wide monitoring (up to ~1 ha), and
(ii) a portable handheld radar for periodic re-localisation of tagged individuals in complex environments.

Operating in the X-band/Ka-band regime, these systems enable battery-free tracking with demonstrated detection ranges exceeding 100 m under favourable conditions and sub-metre localisation accuracy at short to medium distances. Extensive field experiments quantify the effects of vegetation, ground proximity, tag orientation, and attachment strategies, providing practical deployment guidelines for ecological studies.

We seek project cooperation with ecologists, biodiversity researchers, and policy-oriented consortia addressing insect population trends, drivers of decline, and mitigation strategies. The technology complements visual, acoustic, and genetic monitoring methods and supports applications such as pollinator movement studies, habitat connectivity analysis, and evaluation of nature-based solutions, directly aligning with EU Biodiversity Strategy and Nature Restoration objectives.