Data from: Harnessing knowledge: a multi-taxa evaluation of device attachment elements, reporting gaps, and protocols for best practices in wild birds

This dataset includes the survey data and literature review data used in analyzes for the following publication: Scarpignato AL*, Stanley CQ*, Anderson AM, Cooper NW, Harrison AL, Herrmann V, López FG, Rebollo ME, Delaski KM, Marra PP. 2026. Harnessing knowledge: a multi-taxa evaluation of device attachment elements, reporting gaps, and protocols for best practices in wild birds. Ornithology.

Abstract: The increased use of bio-logging devices for studies in avian ecology has outpaced the evaluation of device attachment and development of reporting guidelines and protocols that protect animal welfare and data quality. To address this gap, we report on external attachment methods across multiple taxa and define 3 elements, the design, materials, and procedure, that provide a framework to approach device attachment. We conducted a narrative literature review (2010–2022; n = 1,160 studies) and survey of the ornithological community (2020; n = 167 respondents) to assess the use of attachment methods and the reporting of methods and impacts. Harness and mount attachments were used almost equally across the literature and survey. However, 14% of reviewed studies did not report any attachment type and nearly a third lacked sufficient detail to categorize the harness design used. Harness types varied by taxonomic order, with leg-loop and backpack harnesses being the most prevalent and the focus of further analysis. The number of devices deployed was frequently reported in published papers; details on harness and securing material and size were less commonly provided. One fifth of reviewed papers (n = 269) using backpack or leg-loop harnesses reported on impacts of attachments, and of those, 58% indicated neutral impacts. By contrast, only 23% of survey respondents reported not encountering impacts in their research. The survey also provided methodological details not found in the literature review, suggesting this knowledge exists outside of the published literature. We emphasize the need for standardized reporting of device attachment methodologies and their impacts on birds. Accordingly, we introduce two illustrated protocols for device attachment. We encourage adaptation for different species and study conditions to support consistency, reproducibility, and ethical, efficient practices ensuring bio-logging remains a key tool for avian research and conservation.