HOLOHIL

Today, we’re celebrating a very special milestone!

Congratulations to our Director, John Edwards, on reaching 30 years with Holohil today. Many of you will recognize John as the friendly face of Holohil, always ready with a smile, a conversation, and a wealth of knowledge.

For three decades, his dedication, leadership, and passion have helped shape who we are today. We’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s contributed to the Holohil team over the years—and we look forward to many more years of seeing John show up to work in his legendary collection of crazy shirts.

Congratulations on 30 incredible years, John! 🎉

Choosing the Right Transmitter 🔊

When it comes to VHF tracking, the “right” transmitter isn’t one-size-fits-all. The first thing to consider is weight—it should always be less than 5% of the animal’s body weight to avoid impacting natural behavior. Next, think about battery life: smaller transmitters are lighter but have shorter lifespans, while bigger units last longer but add weight. Finally, frequency selection is key, especially in areas with multiple tagged animals—choosing the right frequency prevents signal overlap and ensures clean, reliable data.

With the right transmitter, every ping tells a story—from tiny frogs to large reptiles.

Proud to support this important work!

Species Spotlight | Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat 🐀

This small, nocturnal mammal is built for life in dry, open landscapes—using powerful hind legs to leap across grasslands and storing seeds in cheek pouches as it forages at night.

Originally listed as endangered in 1988 due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the species has made encouraging progress. Through dedicated conservation efforts and habitat protection plans, it was downlisted to threatened in 2021.

While it still relies on carefully managed habitats to survive, the Stephens’ kangaroo rat is a strong example of how focused conservation action can support species recovery.

(Source: https://www.fws.gov/species/stephens-kangaroo-rat-dipodomys-stephensi)

(Photo: https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/stephens-kangaroo-rat-burrow-entrance)

Congratulations to our 2026 2nd Quarter Grant winner:
Dr. Ir. Ambaliou O. Olounlade - “Tracking White-Bellied Pangolins to Combat Wildlife Trafficking in Southern Benin”

More information about this project can be found on our website: www.holohil.com/grant-program/

Our BD-2 transmitter is lightweight enough to be used on many small bird species—like the white-throated tree runner pictured here—while still providing reliable signals for researchers in the field. It’s also magnet activated, making it quick and easy to turn on during deployment and helping streamline fieldwork. 🐦

(Photo: Galaz)

Understanding the difference between standard and reverse mortality modes can make all the difference in collecting accurate data in the field🔋

Our XM units offer both options to suit your study needs.

Standard mortality mode is ideal for active species, like birds, where a lack of movement may indicate a mortality event—triggering an increased or double pulse rate.

Reverse mortality mode, on the other hand, is designed for species that remain still for extended periods, such as during torpor or dormancy, and responds with a decreased pulse rate to help conserve battery life.

Choosing the right mode ensures more reliable data, longer transmitter performance, and better alignment with your study species’ natural behavior.

Reach out to learn which option is best suited for your research!
📧 [email protected]

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of our dear former colleague, Donna Scott.

Donna was an integral part of our team for more than 10 years before retiring from HOLOHIL 10 years ago.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing Donna.
Rest in peace, Donna. You will be missed. ❤️

https://www.crgamble.com/memorials/Scott-Donna/5714397/?fbclid=IwY2xjawR6ycNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgAAR7nEN_Y24B_7In0VlohINPb3Yr2WHhf_j0U6cxaw-IRctPy7o0tzGaV77g6Fw_aem_9Gud7EBqWl_Md9Kd_HwzpQ

Donna Scott (Scissons) Obituary | C. R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel | Almonte, ON View Donna Scott (Scissons)'s complete obituary, share memories, and explore 4 tribute posts from the community.

Species Spotlight | Bog Turtle 🐢

One of the smallest turtles in the world—and the smallest in North America—this tiny species grows to just about 4.5 inches long. But don’t let its size fool you… bog turtles can live over 60 years in the wild.

Listed as threatened since 1997, their populations are impacted by wetland habitat loss, vegetation overgrowth, and illegal collection for trade. As their open wetlands become overgrown and shaded, the habitat they depend on slowly disappears.

Protecting and restoring wetlands is key to ensuring this small but resilient species continues to thrive.

(Source: https://www.fws.gov/species/bog-turtle-glyptemys-muhlenbergii)

(Photo: https://www.marylandzoo.org/animal/bog-turtle/)