Ten pairs of pen-reared bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus virginianus L.) were studied in an effort to determine the mechanical effect of radio-telemetric transmitters on fertilization. Five pairs of quail were equipped with transmitters weighing approximately 24 grams and measuring approximately 2 x 2 x 3.7 centimeters. The remaining 5 pairs without transmitters were maintained under similar conditions. Records were maintained on production, fertility, and hatchability. Such data recorded at two-week intervals throughout the laying season showed that the radio-telemetric transmitters had no adverse effect on the reproductive success of pen-reared quail. The South Carolina Wildlife Resources Department planned a study on the causes of mortality of bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus virginianus L.) during the nesting season utilizing radio telemetry. In planning the investigation some questions were raised as -to the possible mechanicalor behavioral inhibition of fertilization by the "back pack" transmitters. Thus pen-reared quail and transmitters were obtained so as to study the possible mechanical inhibition by such equipment on reproductive success of transmitter equipped quail. The cooperation of Dr. Juan de la Cruz Solis, Poultry Science Department, Clemson University in providing valuable space in an incubator and advice on- raising bobwhite quail is appreciated.
