Werber, Y., & Sapir, N. (2025). Protocol to produce diel vertical movement patterns from the BirdScan MR1 vertical-looking biological radar. STAR Protocols, 6(3), 103986. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xpro.2025.103986
ABSTRACT
Vertical-looking radars (VLRs) detect individual flying animals up to ∼2 km above ground and characterize their flight track, timing, wing movement, size, and shape. We present a protocol for calculating individual vertical movement characteristics and producing diel vertical movement profiles using the BirdScan MR1 VLR, based on flight altitude detection and timing. The protocol includes steps for data preparation and analysis. This protocol promotes a more detailed understanding of migration ecology, stopover behavior, and movement phenology.