A non-invasive method during routine handling indicates docility in a wild, crevice-nesting seabird.
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| Title: | A non-invasive method during routine handling indicates docility in a wild, crevice-nesting seabird. |
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| Authors: | Legard, Matthew J. (AUTHOR), Davoren, Gail K. (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Behaviour. 2025, Vol. 162 Issue 2, p115-136. 22p. |
| Subjects: | Animal species, Personality, Statistical reliability, Species |
| Abstract: | Personality traits have been identified in many animals but species that are hard to observe in the wild present unique challenges. We aimed to determine an appropriate method for identifying docility in a crevice-nesting seabird (razorbill, Alca torda) by conducting three tests associated with this trait. Two tests used quantitative behavioural coding (crevice extraction, restraint), while the other used qualitative observer ratings (routine handling). Chick-rearing razorbills (n = 44) in Newfoundland, Canada were tested across two years (2021, 2022), with 16 tested in both years. Observer ratings during routine handling had the highest repeatability (R = 0.527 , 95% CI = 0.007–0.831), compared to quantified scores during extraction (R = 0.157 , 95% CI = 0–0.399) and restraint (R = 0.041 , 95% CI = 0–0.294) tests. Overall, findings suggest that observer ratings may be a good method to quantify personality traits in species that are hard to observe in the wild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | Personality traits have been identified in many animals but species that are hard to observe in the wild present unique challenges. We aimed to determine an appropriate method for identifying docility in a crevice-nesting seabird (razorbill, Alca torda) by conducting three tests associated with this trait. Two tests used quantitative behavioural coding (crevice extraction, restraint), while the other used qualitative observer ratings (routine handling). Chick-rearing razorbills (n = 44) in Newfoundland, Canada were tested across two years (2021, 2022), with 16 tested in both years. Observer ratings during routine handling had the highest repeatability (R = 0.527 , 95% CI = 0.007–0.831), compared to quantified scores during extraction (R = 0.157 , 95% CI = 0–0.399) and restraint (R = 0.041 , 95% CI = 0–0.294) tests. Overall, findings suggest that observer ratings may be a good method to quantify personality traits in species that are hard to observe in the wild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 00057959 |
| DOI: | 10.1163/1568539X-bja10298 |
