<P> Electronic tags are giving scientists a complete, accurate picture of migration patterns . For example, when scientists used radio transmitters to track one herd of caribou, they learned two important things . First, they learned that the herd moves much more than previously thought . Second, they learned that each year the herd returns to about the same place to give birth . This information would have been difficult or impossible to obtain with "low tech" tags . </P> <P> Tracking migrations is an important tool to better understand and protect species . For example, Florida manatees are an endangered species, and therefore they need protection . Radio tracking showed that Florida manatees may travel as far as Rhode Island when they migrate . This information suggests that the manatees may need protection along much of the Atlantic Coast of the United States . Previously, protection efforts focused mainly in the Florida area . </P> <P> In the wake of the BP oil spill, efforts in tracking animals has increased in the Gulf . Most researchers who use electronic tags have only a few options: pop - up satellite tags, archival tags, or satellite tags . Historically these tags were generally expensive and could cost several thousands of dollars per tag . However, with current advancements in technology prices are now allowing researchers to tag more animals . With this increase in the number of species and individuals that can be tagged it is important to record and acknowledge the potential negative effects these devices might have . </P>

Match each animal with the best description of their migratory behavior