Tracking of Movements of Terrestrial Mammals Using Stable Isotopes

Abstract The key focus of this chapter is on the applications of isotope tracking technologies in mapping the movements of terrestrial mammals. The chapter begins by highlighting the three primary ways the usage of stable isotopes in tracking is more beneficial than alternative methods, and the authors review a number of studies already conducted in this field. The usage of carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen isotopes is discussed, followed by an examination of isotopic retention in the tissues with reference to fur and molting patterns and other keratinous body products. The chapter concludes with a case study that investigated the steps required to conduct an isotopic tracking study of a migratory bat and possible future applications of stable isotopes in studying mammal biology and migration.