Lightweight portable tracking device

[0034]Referring to the drawings and, particularly, to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a tracking system generally designated by the numeral 10 that utilizes a light weight portable tracking apparatus 12 that attaches to an object 14 to facilitate the tracking of mobile objects while collecting data from those objects. The tracking apparatus 12 has an extended lifespan of between one to three years or longer. The tracking apparatus 12 also has a reduced size, a reduced weight, and the ability to collect images, sounds, and other data from the area surrounding the object 14.

[0035]The extended lifespan, reduced size, and reduced weight of the tracking apparatus 12 facilitate the tracking of small objects. Although the tracking apparatus 12 is particularly adapted for tracking birds of prey, the tracking apparatus 12 is also suitable for tracking other birds, other animals, particularly small animals, people, or mobile inanimate objects, such as vehicles or packages.

[0036]The tracking apparat