We have recently rolled out a series of updates to the Seabird Tracking Database to improve user experience and functionality. Please see the sections below on 1) dataset legacy, 2) data discovery and 3) database function, along with our updated  instructions page for more information.

1) Dataset legacy

Ideally datasets have a long-term legacy by contributing to seabird conservation and research for years to come beyond the original collection or upload purposes. However, people move on from their roles after uploading, and updating email addresses is not always a priority. So, we encourage data owners to use the optional new features for new and existing datasets.

• Back up contact details
  • Include an email address if the one associated with your account is not working. This is for the specific dataset, but you can also add a secondary email address for your account.
• Embargoes
  • Users can now delay publishing (public appearance on the database and in searches) to a specific date, such as the publication date of a journal article.
• More pre-approval options
  • There are now more options for automatically approving different request types (BirdLife/conservation/non-commercial/commercial).
  • Pre-approvals can be put in place immediately or in the future.

 

 

2) Data discovery

We have made some improvement to help people find the data they need and support collaboration. The most requested features, mapping multiple datasets and downloading search results, are now available!

• Improved metadata downloads
  • CSV downloads of metadata contain new information.
  • Metadata for filtered tables and/or selected datasets can now be downloaded.
• Instant results
  • Searches and filters now instantly provide results after each selection so users can keep track of the effects of each option.
• Dataset maps
  • Individual datasets can now be plotted as points and lines.
  • EEZs (Exclusive Economic Zones for each country) can now be visualised with tracking data.
• Map datasets together
  • Users can now select up to 20 datasets to add to one map.

 

 

3) Database function

The database now has a new underlying structure that allows for bigger files to be uploaded, reduces inconsistencies and provides more options for future developments.

• Bigger datasets
  • After submitting data, the processing will now happen as a “pending dataset” allowing the system to receive larger files.
• Improved error checking
  • The error messages received are now more specific about the issues if your data does not process successfully.

 

 

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the database and those who gave us feedback!

And, as always, we welcome comments and questions to help us make the database better for the seabird community.