Source: https://tendernation.io/opportunities/01a13c1a-5e10-72b9-a09f-ae84faff3449/evaluation-of-off-the-shelf-technologies-for-their-potential-to-track-asian-horn

awarded GB negotiated without publication procedure Suitable for SMEs

# Evaluation of off-the-shelf technologies for their potential to track Asian Hornets (Vespa velutina)

[Defra Network eTendering Portal](https://tendernation.io/buyers/defra-network-etendering-portal)

Often single bidder

Estimated value

£65,808

Published

9 Mar 2017

Deadline

Closed

1 Feb 2017

## Who can bid

- Buyer says suitable for SMEs

    The buyer ticked “suitable for SMEs” on the notice. Anyone can still bid.
- Buyer says suitable for VCSEs

    The buyer ticked “suitable for voluntary, community and social enterprises” on the notice.
- Small contract value

    Valued under £135,018 including VAT, the lowest Procurement Act threshold for goods and services.

[More contracts for small businesses and VCSEs](https://tendernation.io/opportunities/for-small-businesses)

## About this tender

The overall aim is to test whether off-the-shelf insect tracking technology can be used to track Asian hornets in the wild, flying from forage sites to their nests, and thus aid nest detection. We have the following objectives:

- Interview key Asian hornet scientists in Europe to review latest methods that have been evaluated for finding nests
- Test effectiveness of Biotrack & RECCO tracking technologies in a range of habitats and environments likely to be suitable for Asian hornet nesting.
- Optimise Biotrack PicoPip tag (antennal length, orientation, attachment method) for use on ~200mg flying insect
- Optimise RECCO radar tag (antennal length, orientation, attachment method) for use on ~200mg flying insect
- Test optimised tags on hornets (or surrogate insects) in confined conditions to confirm that insects behave and fly as expected.
- Field test the most promising technology (Biotrack or RECCO or both) on free-flying Asian hornets in France. Test whether they can detect return flights to nests.
- Design protocol for using technology to find nests in future, documenting constraints (e.g. environment, range, battery life), and write an instruction manual.
- Write final report and talks for Defra, NBU and beekeepers.

Additional information:

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Read full description

## CPV classification

Information technology services

Source

Contracts Finder (UK)

[View official notice](https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/notice/eee7fd8b-4976-43cc-8d3b-8c877935268c)

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