Methods in Animal Behaviour

Question 1

Observational Data

Answer 1

• more common in natural pop but is used in zoos
• ‘equipment’ tends to be eyes

Question 2

Sampling Method - Focal

Answer 2

Only focusing on one subject

Question 3

Sampling Method - Scan

Answer 3

• Looking generally at all subjects hoping to get as much data

Question 4

Frequency - Continuous

Answer 4

• Write down time there is a change
• Harder to record additional data.

Question 5

Frequency - Ad libitum

Answer 5

• Record when particular behaviour
• Helpful for rare occurrences

Question 6

Frequency - Combination

Answer 6

• Often record diff data sets with diff methods

Question 7

Wild vs Controlled Observation

Answer 7

• Natural - can take longer, down to chance - reflection of true behaviour and only way
• Controlled - collect more data - can see

Question 8

Newer Technology for Observation

Answer 8

• drones - can take mass movement
• GPS logging

Question 9

Considerations when proposing an animal study

Answer 9

• what is your question?
• species?
• natural or controlled
• short or long term
• sample size - often based on what is available
• ethics? - even considering if presence for study causes issues
• methods - technology