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Kimball MG, Lattin CR. The "Seven Deadly Sins" of Neophobia Experimental Design. Integr Comp Biol 2024; 64:38-54. [PMID: 37996398 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icad127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neophobia, an aversive response to novelty, is a behavior with critical ecological and evolutionary relevance for wild populations because it directly influences animals' ability to adapt to new environments and exploit novel resources. Neophobia has been described in a wide variety of different animal species from arachnids to zebra finches. Because of this widespread prevalence and ecological importance, the number of neophobia studies has continued to increase over time. However, many neophobia studies (as well as many animal behavior studies more generally) suffer from one or more of what we have deemed the "seven deadly sins" of neophobia experimental design. These "sins" include: (1) animals that are not habituated to the testing environment, (2) problems with novel stimulus selection, (3) non-standardized motivation, (4) pseudoreplication, (5) lack of sufficient controls, (6) fixed treatment order, and (7) using arbitrary thresholds for data analysis. We discuss each of these potential issues in turn and make recommendations for how to avoid them in future behavior research. More consistency in how neophobia studies are designed would facilitate comparisons across different populations and species and allow researchers to better understand whether neophobia can help explain animals' responses to human-altered landscapes and the ability to survive in the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie G Kimball
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Christine R Lattin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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2
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Lim H, Chan IZW, Monteiro A. Pattern Matters in the Aposematic Colouration of Papilio polytes Butterflies. INSECTS 2024; 15:465. [PMID: 39057198 PMCID: PMC11277510 DOI: 10.3390/insects15070465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Many toxic animals display bright colour patterns to warn predators about their toxicity. This sometimes leads other sympatric palatable organisms to evolve mimetic colour patterns to also evade predation. These mimics, however, are often imperfect, and it is unclear how much their colour patterns can vary away from the model before they become ineffective. In this study, we investigated how predation risk of the palatable Common Mormon butterfly (Papilio polytes) is affected by two alterations of its wing pattern that make it progressively more distinct from its model, the Common Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae). We deployed butterfly paper models in the field, where all models displayed the same colours but had different patterns. In the first modification from the Wildtype pattern, we exchanged the position of the red and white colour patches but kept the overall pattern constant. In the second modification, we created an eyespot-like shape from the pre-existing pattern elements by moving their positions in the wing, altering the overall wing pattern. Both modifications increased attack risk from predators relative to Wildtype patterns, with the eyespot-like modification having the highest predation risk. Our results show that avian predators can distinguish between all three patterns tested, and that pattern is important in aposematic signals. Predators learn to avoid aposematic colours, not in isolation, but as part of specific patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ian Z. W. Chan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117558, Singapore
| | - Antónia Monteiro
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117558, Singapore
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3
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Lunn R, Baumhardt PE, Blackwell BF, Freyssinier JP, Fernández-Juricic E. Light wavelength and pulsing frequency affect avoidance responses of Canada geese. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16379. [PMID: 38025716 PMCID: PMC10668863 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Collisions between birds and aircraft cause bird mortality, economic damage, and aviation safety hazards. One proposed solution to increasing the distance at which birds detect and move away from an approaching aircraft, ultimately mitigating the probability of collision, is through onboard lighting systems. Lights in vehicles have been shown to lead to earlier reactions in some bird species but they could also generate attraction, potentially increasing the probability of collision. Using information on the visual system of the Canada goose (Branta canadensis), we developed light stimuli of high chromatic contrast to their eyes. We then conducted a controlled behavioral experiment (i.e., single-choice test) to assess the avoidance or attraction responses of Canada geese to LED lights of different wavelengths (blue, 483 nm; red, 631 nm) and pulsing frequencies (steady, pulsing at 2 Hz). Overall, Canada geese tended to avoid the blue light and move towards the red light; however, these responses depended heavily on light exposure order. At the beginning of the experiment, geese tended to avoid the red light. After further exposure the birds developed an attraction to the red light, consistent with the mere exposure effect. The response to the blue light generally followed a U-shape relationship (avoidance, attraction, avoidance) with increasing number of exposures, again consistent with the mere exposure effect, but followed by the satiation effect. Lights pulsing at 2 Hz enhanced avoidance responses under high ambient light conditions; whereas steady lights enhanced avoidance responses under dim ambient light conditions. Our results have implications for the design of lighting systems aimed at mitigating collisions between birds and human objects. LED lights in the blue portion of the spectrum are good candidates for deterrents and lights in the red portion of the spectrum may be counterproductive given the attraction effects with increasing exposure. Additionally, consideration should be given to systems that automatically modify pulsing of the light depending on ambient light intensity to enhance avoidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Lunn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Patrice E. Baumhardt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health and Inspection Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH, United States of America
| | - Jean Paul Freyssinier
- Lighting Research Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States of America
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Lunn RB, Blackwell BF, DeVault TL, Fernández-Juricic E. Can we use antipredator behavior theory to predict wildlife responses to high-speed vehicles? PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267774. [PMID: 35551549 PMCID: PMC9098083 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals seem to rely on antipredator behavior to avoid vehicle collisions. There is an extensive body of antipredator behavior theory that have been used to predict the distance/time animals should escape from predators. These models have also been used to guide empirical research on escape behavior from vehicles. However, little is known as to whether antipredator behavior models are appropriate to apply to an approaching high-speed vehicle scenario. We addressed this gap by (a) providing an overview of the main hypotheses and predictions of different antipredator behavior models via a literature review, (b) exploring whether these models can generate quantitative predictions on escape distance when parameterized with empirical data from the literature, and (c) evaluating their sensitivity to vehicle approach speed using a simulation approach wherein we assessed model performance based on changes in effect size with variations in the slope of the flight initiation distance (FID) vs. approach speed relationship. The slope of the FID vs. approach speed relationship was then related back to three different behavioral rules animals may rely on to avoid approaching threats: the spatial, temporal, or delayed margin of safety. We used literature on birds for goals (b) and (c). Our review considered the following eight models: the economic escape model, Blumstein's economic escape model, the optimal escape model, the perceptual limit hypothesis, the visual cue model, the flush early and avoid the rush (FEAR) hypothesis, the looming stimulus hypothesis, and the Bayesian model of escape behavior. We were able to generate quantitative predictions about escape distance with the last five models. However, we were only able to assess sensitivity to vehicle approach speed for the last three models. The FEAR hypothesis is most sensitive to high-speed vehicles when the species follows the spatial (FID remains constant as speed increases) and the temporal margin of safety (FID increases with an increase in speed) rules of escape. The looming stimulus effect hypothesis reached small to intermediate levels of sensitivity to high-speed vehicles when a species follows the delayed margin of safety (FID decreases with an increase in speed). The Bayesian optimal escape model reached intermediate levels of sensitivity to approach speed across all escape rules (spatial, temporal, delayed margins of safety) but only for larger (> 1 kg) species, but was not sensitive to speed for smaller species. Overall, no single antipredator behavior model could characterize all different types of escape responses relative to vehicle approach speed but some models showed some levels of sensitivity for certain rules of escape behavior. We derive some applied applications of our findings by suggesting the estimation of critical vehicle approach speeds for managing populations that are especially susceptible to road mortality. Overall, we recommend that new escape behavior models specifically tailored to high-speeds vehicles should be developed to better predict quantitatively the responses of animals to an increase in the frequency of cars, airplanes, drones, etc. they will face in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan B. Lunn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- USDA, APHIS, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH, United States of America
| | - Travis L. DeVault
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Jackson, SC, United States of America
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5
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Responses of turkey vultures to unmanned aircraft systems vary by platform. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21655. [PMID: 34737377 PMCID: PMC8569017 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01098-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
A challenge that conservation practitioners face is manipulating behavior of nuisance species. The turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) can cause substantial damage to aircraft if struck. The goal of this study was to assess vulture responses to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for use as a possible dispersal tool. Our treatments included three platforms (fixed-wing, multirotor, and a predator-like ornithopter [powered by flapping flight]) and two approach types (30 m overhead or targeted towards a vulture) in an operational context. We evaluated perceived risk as probability of reaction, reaction time, flight-initiation distance (FID), vulture remaining index, and latency to return. Vultures escaped sooner in response to the fixed-wing; however, fewer remained after multirotor treatments. Targeted approaches were perceived as riskier than overhead. Vulture perceived risk was enhanced by flying the multirotor in a targeted approach. We found no effect of our treatments on FID or latency to return. Latency was negatively correlated with UAS speed, perhaps because slower UAS spent more time over the area. Greatest visual saliency followed as: ornithopter, fixed-wing, and multirotor. Despite its appearance, the ornithopter was not effective at dispersing vultures. Because effectiveness varied, multirotor/fixed-wing UAS use should be informed by management goals (immediate dispersal versus latency).
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Wilson AA, Ditmer MA, Barber JR, Carter NH, Miller ET, Tyrrell LP, Francis CD. Artificial night light and anthropogenic noise interact to influence bird abundance over a continental scale. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:3987-4004. [PMID: 34111313 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The extent of artificial night light and anthropogenic noise (i.e., "light" and "noise") impacts is global and has the capacity to threaten species across diverse ecosystems. Existing research involving impacts of light or noise has primarily focused on noise or light alone and single species; however, these stimuli often co-occur and little is known about how co-exposure influences wildlife and if and why species may vary in their responses. Here, we had three aims: (1) to investigate species-specific responses to light, noise, and the interaction between the two using a spatially explicit approach to model changes in abundance of 140 prevalent bird species across North America, (2) to investigate responses to the interaction between light exposure and night length, and (3) to identify functional traits and habitat affiliations that explain variation in species-specific responses to these sensory stimuli with phylogenetically informed models. We found species that responded to noise exposure generally decreased in abundance, and the additional presence of light interacted synergistically with noise to exacerbate its negative effects. Moreover, the interaction revealed negative emergent responses for several species that only reacted when light and noise co-occurred. Additionally, an interaction between light and night length revealed 47 species increased in abundance with light exposure during longer nights. In addition to modifying behavior with optimal temperature and potential foraging opportunities, birds might be attracted to light, yet suffer inadvertent physiological consequences. The trait that most strongly related to avian response to light and noise was habitat affiliation. Specifically, species that occupy closed habitat were less tolerant of both sensory stressors compared to those that occupy open habitat. Further quantifying the contexts and intrinsic traits that explain how species respond to noise and light will be fundamental to understanding the ecological consequences of a world that is ever louder and brighter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Wilson
- Biological Sciences, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Mark A Ditmer
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jesse R Barber
- Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, USA
| | - Neil H Carter
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Eliot T Miller
- Macaulay Library, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Luke P Tyrrell
- Biological Sciences, State University of New York Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY, USA
| | - Clinton D Francis
- Biological Sciences, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
- Communication and Social Behaviour Group, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany
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7
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Yorzinski JL. Great-tailed grackles can independently direct their eyes toward different targets. Exp Brain Res 2021; 239:2119-2126. [PMID: 33956161 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-021-06122-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Many species use eye movements to direct their overt attention toward specific targets within their environments. Some species can move each eye independently but we have a limited understanding of whether they can simultaneously monitor different targets with each eye. This study, therefore, tested whether a songbird can independently move its eyes towards two different targets. Captive great-tailed grackles (Quiscalus mexicanus) were simultaneously presented with one target in their left visual field and another target in their right visual field; the targets were both in the upper visual fields, both in the lower visual fields, or one target was in the upper visual field of one eye, while the other target was in the lower visual field of the other eye. The grackles correctly directed their left and right eyes toward the targets regardless of where the targets appeared at levels greater than chance. These results demonstrate that an avian species can perform simultaneous eye movements towards two different targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Yorzinski
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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8
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Boycott TJ, Mullis SM, Jackson BE, Swaddle JP. Field testing an "acoustic lighthouse": Combined acoustic and visual cues provide a multimodal solution that reduces avian collision risk with tall human-made structures. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249826. [PMID: 33909647 PMCID: PMC8081207 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Billions of birds fatally collide with human-made structures each year. These mortalities have consequences for population viability and conservation of endangered species. This source of human-wildlife conflict also places constraints on various industries. Furthermore, with continued increases in urbanization, the incidence of collisions continues to increase. Efforts to reduce collisions have largely focused on making structures more visible to birds through visual stimuli but have shown limited success. We investigated the efficacy of a multimodal combination of acoustic signals with visual cues to reduce avian collisions with tall structures in open airspace. Previous work has demonstrated that a combination of acoustic and visual cues can decrease collision risk of birds in captive flight trials. Extending to field tests, we predicted that novel acoustic signals would combine with the visual cues of tall communication towers to reduce collision risk for birds. We broadcast two audible frequency ranges (4 to 6 and 6 to 8 kHz) in front of tall communication towers at locations in the Atlantic migratory flyway of Virginia during annual migration and observed birds' flight trajectories around the towers. We recorded an overall 12-16% lower rate of general bird activity surrounding towers during sound treatment conditions, compared with control (no broadcast sound) conditions. Furthermore, in 145 tracked "at-risk" flights, birds reduced flight velocity and deflected flight trajectories to a greater extent when exposed to the acoustic stimuli near the towers. In particular, the 4 to 6 kHz stimulus produced the greater effect sizes, with birds altering flight direction earlier in their trajectories and at larger distances from the towers, perhaps indicating that frequency range is more clearly audible to flying birds. This "acoustic lighthouse" concept reduces the risk of collision for birds in the field and could be applied to reduce collision risk associated with many human-made structures, such as wind turbines and tall buildings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J. Boycott
- Biology Department, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Sally M. Mullis
- Biology Department, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Brandon E. Jackson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Longwood University, Farmville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - John P. Swaddle
- Biology Department, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Institute for Integrative Conservation, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
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9
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Elmer LK, Madliger CL, Blumstein DT, Elvidge CK, Fernández-Juricic E, Horodysky AZ, Johnson NS, McGuire LP, Swaisgood RR, Cooke SJ. Exploiting common senses: sensory ecology meets wildlife conservation and management. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab002. [PMID: 33815799 PMCID: PMC8009554 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Multidisciplinary approaches to conservation and wildlife management are often effective in addressing complex, multi-factor problems. Emerging fields such as conservation physiology and conservation behaviour can provide innovative solutions and management strategies for target species and systems. Sensory ecology combines the study of 'how animals acquire' and process sensory stimuli from their environments, and the ecological and evolutionary significance of 'how animals respond' to this information. We review the benefits that sensory ecology can bring to wildlife conservation and management by discussing case studies across major taxa and sensory modalities. Conservation practices informed by a sensory ecology approach include the amelioration of sensory traps, control of invasive species, reduction of human-wildlife conflicts and relocation and establishment of new populations of endangered species. We illustrate that sensory ecology can facilitate the understanding of mechanistic ecological and physiological explanations underlying particular conservation issues and also can help develop innovative solutions to ameliorate conservation problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Elmer
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Christine L Madliger
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Daniel T Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1606, USA
| | - Chris K Elvidge
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | | | - Andrij Z Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Nicholas S Johnson
- USGS, Great Lakes Science Center, Hammond Bay Biological Station, Millersburg, MI 49759, USA
| | - Liam P McGuire
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Ronald R Swaisgood
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA 92027-7000, USA
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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Chock RY, Clucas B, Peterson EK, Blackwell BF, Blumstein DT, Church K, Fernández‐Juricic E, Francescoli G, Greggor AL, Kemp P, Pinho GM, Sanzenbacher PM, Schulte BA, Toni P. Evaluating potential effects of solar power facilities on wildlife from an animal behavior perspective. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Y. Chock
- Recovery Ecology San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Barbara Clucas
- Department of Wildlife Humboldt State University Arcata California USA
| | - Elizabeth K. Peterson
- Communities to Build Active STEM Engagement Colorado State University‐Pueblo Pueblo Colorado USA
- Department of Biology Colorado State University‐Pueblo Pueblo Colorado USA
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky Ohio USA
| | - Daniel T. Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles California USA
| | - Kathleen Church
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research University of Windsor Windsor Ontario Canada
| | | | - Gabriel Francescoli
- Sección Etología, Facultad de Ciencias Universidad de la República Montevideo Uruguay
| | - Alison L. Greggor
- Recovery Ecology San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Paul Kemp
- International Centre for Ecohydraulics Research, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Department of Civil, Maritime and Environmental Engineering University of Southampton Southampton UK
| | - Gabriela M. Pinho
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles California USA
| | | | - Bruce A. Schulte
- Department of Biology Western Kentucky University Bowling Green Kentucky USA
| | - Pauline Toni
- Department of Biology Université de Sherbrooke Québec Canada
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11
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Sensory pollutants alter bird phenology and fitness across a continent. Nature 2020; 587:605-609. [PMID: 33177710 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2903-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Expansion of anthropogenic noise and night lighting across our planet1,2 is of increasing conservation concern3-6. Despite growing knowledge of physiological and behavioural responses to these stimuli from single-species and local-scale studies, whether these pollutants affect fitness is less clear, as is how and why species vary in their sensitivity to these anthropic stressors. Here we leverage a large citizen science dataset paired with high-resolution noise and light data from across the contiguous United States to assess how these stimuli affect reproductive success in 142 bird species. We find responses to both sensory pollutants linked to the functional traits and habitat affiliations of species. For example, overall nest success was negatively correlated with noise among birds in closed environments. Species-specific changes in reproductive timing and hatching success in response to noise exposure were explained by vocalization frequency, nesting location and diet. Additionally, increased light-gathering ability of species' eyes was associated with stronger advancements in reproductive timing in response to light exposure, potentially creating phenological mismatches7. Unexpectedly, better light-gathering ability was linked to reduced clutch failure and increased overall nest success in response to light exposure, raising important questions about how responses to sensory pollutants counteract or exacerbate responses to other aspects of global change, such as climate warming. These findings demonstrate that anthropogenic noise and light can substantially affect breeding bird phenology and fitness, and underscore the need to consider sensory pollutants alongside traditional dimensions of the environment that typically inform biodiversity conservation.
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13
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Cantlay JC, Bond AL, Wells-Berlin AM, Crawford R, Martin GR, Rouxel Y, Peregoy S, McGrew KA, Portugal SJ. Ineffectiveness of light emitting diodes as underwater deterrents for Long-tailed Ducks Clangula hyemalis. Glob Ecol Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2020.e01102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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14
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DeVault TL, Seamans TW, Blackwell BF. Frontal vehicle illumination via rear‐facing lighting reduces potential for collisions with white‐tailed deer. Ecosphere 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Travis L. DeVault
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky Ohio44870USA
| | - Thomas W. Seamans
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky Ohio44870USA
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky Ohio44870USA
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15
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Abstract
Collisions between birds and aircraft pose a severe threat to aviation and avian safety. To understand and prevent these bird strikes, knowledge about the factors leading to these bird strikes is vital. However, even though it is a global issue, data availability strongly varies and is difficult to put into a global picture. This paper aims to close this gap by providing an in-depth review of studies and statistics to obtain a concise overview of the bird strike problem in commercial aviation on an international level. The paper illustrates the factors contributing to the occurrence and the potential consequences in terms of effect on flight and damage. This is followed by a presentation of the risk-reducing measures currently in place as well as their limitations. The paper closes with an insight into current research investigating novel methods to prevent bird strikes.
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Cerio DG, Witmer LM. Modeling visual fields using virtual ophthalmoscopy: Incorporating geometrical optics, morphometrics, and 3D visualization to validate an interdisciplinary technique. Vision Res 2020; 167:70-86. [PMID: 31972447 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Visual fields are of particular interest to comparative biologists studying the complex interplay between anatomy, physiology, ecology, and optics. Visual fields have been measured in nearly 100 bird species, and investigators have uncovered associations between quantitative aspects of visual fields and foraging behavior, skull dimensions, and even brain morphology. However, limiting factors including time, access to living subjects, and experimental constraints complicate study of the visual apparatus of rare, endangered, or extinct species. We introduce a modeling technique called virtual ophthalmoscopy (VO) for estimating visual fields of vertebrates. We compare this in-silico technique, which draws on geometrical optics, morphometrics of eyes, and 3D visualization, against experimental data from 12 bird species from behavioral literature. Known values of optical properties, including axial length, lens curvatures, and refractive index, are used to construct and test virtual, schematic eyes in ray-tracing software. Resulting visual fields are measured in 3D-visualization software. These measurements are compared qualitatively and quantitatively with visual fields from the literature. Schematic eyeballs and in-silico visual fields, after iterative improvements using anatomical information from cadaveric specimens, approximate experimental data to the extent of falling within the range of intraspecific variation, suggesting VO is a viable technique for modeling visual fields. Virtual ophthalmoscopy creates an opportunity to expand the sample of species for which visual fields can be quantified and allows new hypotheses regarding the evolution of visual systems to be tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Cerio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States.
| | - Lawrence M Witmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States.
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Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, DeVault TL, Lima SL, Pfeiffer MB, Fernández-Juricic E. Social information affects Canada goose alert and escape responses to vehicle approach: implications for animal-vehicle collisions. PeerJ 2019; 7:e8164. [PMID: 31871837 PMCID: PMC6924344 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal-vehicle collisions represent substantial sources of mortality for a variety of taxa and can pose hazards to property and human health. But there is comparatively little information available on escape responses by free-ranging animals to vehicle approach versus predators/humans. METHODS We examined responses (alert distance and flight-initiation distance) of focal Canada geese (Branta canadensis maxima) to vehicle approach (15.6 m·s-1) in a semi-natural setting and given full opportunity to escape. We manipulated the direction of the vehicle approach (direct versus tangential) and availability of social information about the vehicle approach (companion group visually exposed or not to the vehicle). RESULTS We found that both categorical factors interacted to affect alert and escape behaviors. Focal geese used mostly personal information to become alert to the vehicle under high risk scenarios (direct approach), but they combined personal and social information to become alert in low risk scenarios (tangential approach). Additionally, when social information was not available from the companion group, focal birds escaped at greater distances under direct compared to tangential approaches. However, when the companion group could see the vehicle approaching, focal birds escaped at similar distances irrespective of vehicle direction. Finally, geese showed a greater tendency to take flight when the vehicle approached directly, as opposed to a side step or walking away from the vehicle. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that the perception of risk to vehicle approach (likely versus unlikely collision) is weighted by the availability of social information in the group; a phenomenon not described before in the context of animal-vehicle interactions. Notably, when social information is available, the effects of heightened risk associated with a direct approach might be reduced, leading to the animal delaying the escape, which could ultimately increase the chances of a collision. Also, information on a priori escape distances required for surviving a vehicle approach (based on species behavior and vehicle approach speeds) can inform planning, such as location of designated cover or safe areas. Future studies should assess how information from vehicle approach flows within a flock, including aspects of vehicle speed and size, metrics that affect escape decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley F. Blackwell
- National Widlife Research Center, Wildlife Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sandusky, OH, USA
| | - Thomas W. Seamans
- National Widlife Research Center, Wildlife Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sandusky, OH, USA
| | - Travis L. DeVault
- National Widlife Research Center, Wildlife Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sandusky, OH, USA
| | - Steven L. Lima
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN, USA
| | - Morgan B. Pfeiffer
- National Widlife Research Center, Wildlife Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sandusky, OH, USA
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Sheppard CD. Evaluating the relative effectiveness of patterns on glass as deterrents of bird collisions with glass. Glob Ecol Conserv 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2019.e00795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, Fernández‐Juricic E, Devault TL, Outward RJ. Avian responses to aircraft in an airport environment. J Wildl Manage 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bradley F. Blackwell
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection ServiceWildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research Center6100 Columbus AvenueClevelandOH44870USA
| | - Thomas W. Seamans
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection ServiceWildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research Center6100 Columbus AvenueClevelandOH44870USA
| | | | - Travis L. Devault
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection ServiceWildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research Center6100 Columbus AvenueClevelandOH44870USA
| | - Randy J. Outward
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection ServiceWildlife Services1501 N. Marginal RdClevelandOH44114USA
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Goller B, Blackwell BF, DeVault TL, Baumhardt PE, Fernández-Juricic E. Assessing bird avoidance of high-contrast lights using a choice test approach: implications for reducing human-induced avian mortality. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5404. [PMID: 30280013 PMCID: PMC6163032 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Avian collisions with man-made objects and vehicles (e.g., buildings, cars, airplanes, power lines) have increased recently. Lights have been proposed to alert birds and minimize the chances of collisions, but it is challenging to choose lights that are tuned to the avian eye and can also lead to avoidance given the differences between human and avian vision. We propose a choice test to address this problem by first identifying wavelengths of light that would over-stimulate the retina using species-specific perceptual models and by then assessing the avoidance/attraction responses of brown-headed cowbirds to these lights during daytime using a behavioral assay. Methods We used perceptual models to estimate wavelength-specific light emitting diode (LED) lights with high chromatic contrast. The behavioral assay consisted of an arena where the bird moved in a single direction and was forced to make a choice (right/left) using a single-choice design (one side with the light on, the other with the light off) under diurnal light conditions. Results First, we identified lights with high saliency from the cowbird visual perspective: LED lights with peaks at 380 nm (ultraviolet), 470 nm (blue), 525 nm (green), 630 nm (red), and broad-spectrum (white) LED lights. Second, we found that cowbirds significantly avoided LED lights with peaks at 470 and 630 nm, but did not avoid or prefer LED lights with peaks at 380 and 525 nm or white lights. Discussion The two lights avoided had the highest chromatic contrast but relatively lower levels of achromatic contrast. Our approach can optimize limited resources to narrow down wavelengths of light with high visual saliency for a target species leading to avoidance. These lights can be used as candidates for visual deterrents to reduce collisions with man-made objects and vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Goller
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Travis L DeVault
- USDA/APHIS/WS National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH, USA
| | - Patrice E Baumhardt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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DeVault T, Seamans T, Blackwell B, Lima S, Fernández-Juricic E. Individual variation in avian avoidance behaviours in response to repeated, simulated vehicle approach. CAN J ZOOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2017-0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Birds exhibit variation in alert and flight behaviours in response to vehicles within and between species, but it is unclear how properties inherent to individuals influence variation in avoidance responses over time. We examined individual variation in avoidance behaviours of Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater (Boddaert, 1783)) in response to repeated presentation of a simulated vehicle approach in a video playback scenario. We modeled temporal alert and flight behaviours to determine whether overall behavioural variation resulted primarily from variation within individuals (i.e., intraindividual variation) or between individuals (i.e., interindividual variation). We examined reaction norms (individual × treatment day) and whether birds showed plasticity in responses via habituation or sensitization. Repeatability in the response metrics for individuals was low (∼0.22 for alert and flight), indicating that model variation was due primarily to within-individual variation rather than between-individual variation. We observed sensitization in alert responses over time, but no sensitization or habituation in flight responses. Our results indicate that individuals learned to anticipate the vehicle approach but did not vary their escape behaviour, suggesting that alert and flight behaviours might be affected differently by cues associated with oncoming objects or experience with them. We consider our findings in light of the ongoing development of strategies to reduce animal–vehicle collisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- T.L. DeVault
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Wildlife Research Center, 6100 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - T.W. Seamans
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Wildlife Research Center, 6100 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - B.F. Blackwell
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Wildlife Research Center, 6100 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - S.L. Lima
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, 600 Chestnut Street, Terre Haute, IN 47809, USA
| | - E. Fernández-Juricic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Lilly Hall G-302, 915 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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Fernández-Juricic E, Brand J, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, DeVault TL. Species With Greater Aerial Maneuverability Have Higher Frequency of Collisions With Aircraft: A Comparative Study. Front Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2018.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Aben J, Pellikka P, Travis JMJ. A call for viewshed ecology: Advancing our understanding of the ecology of information through viewshed analysis. Methods Ecol Evol 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.12902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Job Aben
- Institute of Biological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Aberdeen UK
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Antwerp Wilrijk Belgium
| | - Petri Pellikka
- Department of Geosciences and GeographyUniversity of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| | - Justin M. J. Travis
- Institute of Biological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Aberdeen UK
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Tyrrell LP, Fernández-Juricic E. The Hawk-Eyed Songbird: Retinal Morphology, Eye Shape, and Visual Fields of an Aerial Insectivore. Am Nat 2017; 189:709-717. [PMID: 28514631 DOI: 10.1086/691404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Swallows are a unique group of songbirds because they are active-pursuit predators that execute all aspects of hunting prey in flight: search, detection, pursuit, and capture. We show that swallows have evolved a visual system that is unlike that of any other studied songbird. Swallows have a bifoveate retina that provides sharp lateral and frontal vision, an unusually long eye that enhances spatial resolution, a large posterior blind area, and a narrow binocular field. We also show that swallows and diurnal raptors (hawks and falcons) have converged on a similar visual configuration but that, interestingly, predatory songbirds that ambush prey (flycatchers) have not converged on the same suite of traits. Despite the commonly held belief that predators rely on binocular vision, the temporal (frontally projecting) fovea present in swallows-but not present in other songbirds-is likely not involved in binocular vision. Instead, swallows have four nonoverlapping foveae in a 100° arc around the beak, which can improve the tracking of frontally located aerial prey that are engaging in evasive maneuvers. Overall, vision in pursuit predators reflects the complex sensory demands of hunting in the air at high speeds and emphasizes the importance of acute frontal vision in predators.
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Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, Linnell K, Kutschbach-Brohl L, DeVault TL. Effects of visual obstruction, prey resources, and satiety on bird use of simulated airport grasslands. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Blackwell BF, DeVault TL, Fernández-Juricic E, Gese EM, Gilbert-Norton L, Breck SW. No single solution: application of behavioural principles in mitigating human–wildlife conflict. Anim Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2016.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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DeVault TL, Seamans TW, Blackwell BF, Lima SL, Martinez MA, Fernández‐Juricic E. Can experience reduce collisions between birds and vehicles? J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. L. DeVault
- United States Department of Agriculture National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky OH USA
| | - T. W. Seamans
- United States Department of Agriculture National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky OH USA
| | - B. F. Blackwell
- United States Department of Agriculture National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky OH USA
| | - S. L. Lima
- Department of Biology Indiana State University Terre Haute IN USA
| | - M. A. Martinez
- Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Ecology New Mexico State University Las Cruces NM USA
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DeVault TL, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, Belant JL. Identification of off airport interspecific avian hazards to aircraft. J Wildl Manage 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.1041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Travis L. DeVault
- USDA, APHIS, Wildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research CenterOhio Field Station6100 Columbus AvenueSanduskyOH44870USA
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- USDA, APHIS, Wildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research CenterOhio Field Station6100 Columbus AvenueSanduskyOH44870USA
| | - Thomas W. Seamans
- USDA, APHIS, Wildlife ServicesNational Wildlife Research CenterOhio Field Station6100 Columbus AvenueSanduskyOH44870USA
| | - Jerrold L. Belant
- Carnivore Ecology Laboratory, Forest and Wildlife Research CenterMississippi State UniversityBox 9690Mississippi StateMS39762USA
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The effects of radar on avian behavior: Implications for wildlife management at airports. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Mahjoub G, Hinders MK, Swaddle JP. Using a “sonic net” to deter pest bird species: Excluding European starlings from food sources by disrupting their acoustic communication. WILDLIFE SOC B 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi Mahjoub
- Biology Department, College of William and Mary; Institute for Integrative Bird Behavior Studies; P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg VA 23187 USA
| | - Mark K. Hinders
- Nondestructive Evaluation Lab, Department of Applied Science; College of William and Mary; P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg VA 23187 USA
| | - John P. Swaddle
- Biology Department; College of William and Mary, Institute for Integrative Bird Behavior Studies; P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg VA 23187 USA
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DeVault TL, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, Lima SL, Fernández-Juricic E. Speed kills: ineffective avian escape responses to oncoming vehicles. Proc Biol Sci 2015; 282:20142188. [PMID: 25567648 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2014.2188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal-vehicle collisions cause high levels of vertebrate mortality worldwide, and what goes wrong when animals fail to escape and ultimately collide with vehicles is not well understood. We investigated alert and escape behaviours of captive brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) in response to virtual vehicle approaches of different sizes and at speeds ranging from 60 to 360 km h(-1). Alert and flight initiation distances remained similar across vehicle speeds, and accordingly, alert and flight initiation times decreased at higher vehicle speeds. Thus, avoidance behaviours in cowbirds appeared to be based on distance rather than time available for escape, particularly at 60-150 km h(-1); however, at higher speeds (more than or equal to 180 km h(-1)) no trend in response behaviour was discernible. As vehicle speed increased, cowbirds did not have enough time to assess the approaching vehicle, and cowbirds generally did not initiate flight with enough time to avoid collision when vehicle speed exceeded 120 km h(-1). Although potentially effective for evading predators, the decision-making process used by cowbirds in our study appears maladaptive in the context of avoiding fast-moving vehicles. Our methodological approach and findings provide a framework to assess how novel management strategies could affect escape rules, and the sensory and cognitive abilities animals use to avoid vehicle collisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis L DeVault
- US Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - Bradley F Blackwell
- US Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - Thomas W Seamans
- US Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
| | - Steven L Lima
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN 47809, USA
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Randolet J, Lucas JR, Fernández-Juricic E. Non-Redundant Social Information Use in Avian Flocks with Multisensory Stimuli. Ethology 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn Randolet
- Department of Biological Sciences; Purdue University; West Lafayette IN USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Lucas
- Department of Biological Sciences; Purdue University; West Lafayette IN USA
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Lima SL, Blackwell BF, DeVault TL, Fernández-Juricic E. Animal reactions to oncoming vehicles: a conceptual review. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2014; 90:60-76. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2013] [Revised: 02/01/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven L. Lima
- Department of Biology; Indiana State University; Terre Haute IN 47809 U.S.A
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- National Wildlife Research Center; US Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services; Ohio Field Station, 6100 Columbus Avenue Sandusky OH 44870 U.S.A
| | - Travis L. DeVault
- National Wildlife Research Center; US Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services; Ohio Field Station, 6100 Columbus Avenue Sandusky OH 44870 U.S.A
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Drey KM, Martin JA, Belant JL, DeVault TL, Blackwell BF. Interactions Between Wildlife and Civil Aircraft in Mississippi. SOUTHEAST NAT 2014. [DOI: 10.1656/058.013.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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DeVault TL, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, Lima SL, Fernández-Juricic E. Effects of vehicle speed on flight initiation by Turkey vultures: implications for bird-vehicle collisions. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87944. [PMID: 24503622 PMCID: PMC3913678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The avoidance of motorized vehicles is a common challenge for birds in the modern world. Birds appear to rely on antipredator behaviors to avoid vehicles, but modern vehicles (automobiles and aircraft) are faster than natural predators. Thus, birds may be relatively ill-equipped, in terms of sensory capabilities and behaviors, to avoid vehicles. We examined the idea that birds may be unable to accurately assess particularly high speeds of approaching vehicles, which could contribute to miscalculations in avoidance behaviors and ultimately cause collisions. We baited turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) to roads with animal carcasses and measured flight initiation distance and effective time-to-collision in response to a truck driving directly towards vultures from a starting distance of 1.13 km and at one of three speeds: 30, 60, or 90 kph (no vultures were struck). Flight initiation distance of vultures increased by a factor of 1.85 as speed increased from 30 to 90 kph. However, for 90-kph approaches there was no clear trend in flight initiation distance across replicates: birds appeared equally likely to initiate escape behavior at 40 m as at 220 m. Time-to-collision decreased by a factor of 0.62 with approach speeds from 30 to 90 kph. Also, at 90 kph, four vehicle approaches (17%) resulted in near collisions with vultures (time-to-collision ≤1.7 s), compared to none during 60 kph approaches and one during 30 kph approaches (4%). Our findings suggest that antipredator behaviors in turkey vultures, particularly stimulus processing and response, might not be well tuned to vehicles approaching at speeds ≥90 kph. The possible inability of turkey vultures to react appropriately to high-speed vehicles could be common among birds, and might represent an important determinant of bird-vehicle collisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis L. DeVault
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Bradley F. Blackwell
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Thomas W. Seamans
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Steven L. Lima
- Department of Biology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Esteban Fernández-Juricic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
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Interspecific differences in the visual system and scanning behavior of three forest passerines that form heterospecific flocks. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2013; 199:263-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-012-0790-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Revised: 12/28/2012] [Accepted: 12/30/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Dumont F, Pasquaretta C, Réale D, Bogliani G, von Hardenberg A. Flight Initiation Distance and Starting Distance: Biological Effect or Mathematical Artefact? Ethology 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- François Dumont
- Département des sciences biologiques, Canada Research Chair in Behavioural Ecology; Université du Québec à Montréal; Montréal; QC; Canada
| | - Cristian Pasquaretta
- DISTA - Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Zoology section; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - Denis Réale
- Département des sciences biologiques, Canada Research Chair in Behavioural Ecology; Université du Québec à Montréal; Montréal; QC; Canada
| | - Giuseppe Bogliani
- DISTA - Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Zoology section; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - Achaz von Hardenberg
- Alpine Wildlife Research Centre; Gran Paradiso National Park; Valsavarenche; Italy
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Blackwell BF, DeVault TL, Seamans TW, Lima SL, Baumhardt P, Fernández-Juricic E. Exploiting avian vision with aircraft lighting to reduce bird strikes. J Appl Ecol 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2664.2012.02165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Javůrková V, Šizling AL, Kreisinger J, Albrecht T. An alternative theoretical approach to escape decision-making: the role of visual cues. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32522. [PMID: 22427851 PMCID: PMC3299677 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Accepted: 02/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Escape enables prey to avoid an approaching predator. The escape decision-making process has traditionally been interpreted using theoretical models that consider ultimate explanations based on the cost/benefit paradigm. Ultimate approaches, however, suffer from inseparable extra-assumptions due to an inability to accurately parameterize the model's variables and their interactive relationships. In this study, we propose a mathematical model that uses intensity of predator-mediated visual stimuli as a basic cue for the escape response. We consider looming stimuli (i.e. expanding retinal image of the moving predator) as a cue to flight initiation distance (FID; distance at which escape begins) of incubating Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos). We then examine the relationship between FID, vegetation cover and directness of predator trajectory, and fit the resultant model to experimental data. As predicted by the model, vegetation concealment and directness of predator trajectory interact, with FID decreasing with increased concealment during a direct approach toward prey, but not during a tangential approach. Thus, we show that a simple proximate expectation, which involves only visual processing of a moving predator, may explain interactive effects of environmental and predator-induced variables on an escape response. We assume that our proximate approach, which offers a plausible and parsimonious explanation for variation in FID, may serve as an evolutionary background for traditional, ultimate explanations and should be incorporated into interpretation of escape behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Javůrková
- Department of Zoology, Biodiversity Research Group, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Fernández-Juricic E, Deisher M, Stark AC, Randolet J. Predator Detection is Limited in Microhabitats with High Light Intensity: An Experiment with Brown-Headed Cowbirds. Ethology 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2012.02020.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Fernández-Juricic E. Sensory basis of vigilance behavior in birds: synthesis and future prospects. Behav Processes 2011; 89:143-52. [PMID: 22101130 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2011.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2011] [Revised: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Birds gather visual information through scanning behavior to make decisions relevant for survival (e.g., detecting predators and finding food). The goal of this study was (a) to review some visual properties involved in scanning behavior (retinal specialization for visual resolution and motion detection, visual acuity, and size of the blind area), and (b) hypothesize how the inter-specific variability in these properties may lead to different scanning strategies. The avian visual system has a high degree of heterogeneity in visual performance across the visual field, with some sectors providing higher levels of visual resolution and motion detection (e.g., retinal specializations) than others (e.g., peripheral retina and blind area). Thus, information quality will vary in different parts of the visual field, which contradicts some theoretical assumptions on information gathering. Birds need to move their eyes and heads to align the retinal specializations to different sectors of visual space. The rates of eye and head movements can then be used as proxies for scanning strategies. I propose specific predictions as to how each of the visual properties studied can affect scanning strategies in the context of predator detection in different habitat types and with different levels of predation risk. Establishing the degree of association between sensory specializations and scanning strategies can enhance our understanding of the evolution of anti-predator behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Fernández-Juricic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, 915 W. State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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DeVault TL, Belant JL, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW. Interspecific variation in wildlife hazards to aircraft: Implications for airport wildlife management. WILDLIFE SOC B 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Fernández-Juricic E, Beauchamp G, Treminio R, Hoover M. Making heads turn: association between head movements during vigilance and perceived predation risk in brown-headed cowbird flocks. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Fernández-Juricic E, Moore BA, Doppler M, Freeman J, Blackwell BF, Lima SL, DeVault TL. Testing the Terrain Hypothesis: Canada Geese See Their World Laterally and Obliquely. BRAIN, BEHAVIOR AND EVOLUTION 2011; 77:147-58. [DOI: 10.1159/000326053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 02/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Hawk eyes I: diurnal raptors differ in visual fields and degree of eye movement. PLoS One 2010; 5:e12802. [PMID: 20877645 PMCID: PMC2943905 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2009] [Accepted: 04/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Different strategies to search and detect prey may place specific demands on sensory modalities. We studied visual field configuration, degree of eye movement, and orbit orientation in three diurnal raptors belonging to the Accipitridae and Falconidae families. Methodology/Principal Findings We used an ophthalmoscopic reflex technique and an integrated 3D digitizer system. We found inter-specific variation in visual field configuration and degree of eye movement, but not in orbit orientation. Red-tailed Hawks have relatively small binocular areas (∼33°) and wide blind areas (∼82°), but intermediate degree of eye movement (∼5°), which underscores the importance of lateral vision rather than binocular vision to scan for distant prey in open areas. Cooper's Hawks' have relatively wide binocular fields (∼36°), small blind areas (∼60°), and high degree of eye movement (∼8°), which may increase visual coverage and enhance prey detection in closed habitats. Additionally, we found that Cooper's Hawks can visually inspect the items held in the tip of the bill, which may facilitate food handling. American Kestrels have intermediate-sized binocular and lateral areas that may be used in prey detection at different distances through stereopsis and motion parallax; whereas the low degree eye movement (∼1°) may help stabilize the image when hovering above prey before an attack. Conclusions We conclude that: (a) there are between-species differences in visual field configuration in these diurnal raptors; (b) these differences are consistent with prey searching strategies and degree of visual obstruction in the environment (e.g., open and closed habitats); (c) variations in the degree of eye movement between species appear associated with foraging strategies; and (d) the size of the binocular and blind areas in hawks can vary substantially due to eye movements. Inter-specific variation in visual fields and eye movements can influence behavioral strategies to visually search for and track prey while perching.
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Visual coverage and scanning behavior in two corvid species: American crow and Western scrub jay. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2010; 196:879-88. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-010-0570-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2009] [Revised: 07/11/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hemmi JM, Pfeil A. A multi-stage anti-predator response increases information on predation risk. J Exp Biol 2010; 213:1484-9. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.039925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
Optimal escape theory generally assumes that animals have accurate information about predator distance and direction of approach. To what degree such information is available depends not only on the prey's sensory capabilities but also on its behaviour. The structure of behaviour can strongly constrain or support the gathering of information. The ability of animals to collect and process information is therefore an important factor shaping predator avoidance strategies. Fiddler crabs, like many prey animals, escape predators in a multi-step sequence. In their initial response, they do not have accurate information about a predator's distance and approach trajectory and are forced to base their response decision on incomplete information that is not strictly correlated with risk. We show here that fiddler crabs gather qualitatively different visual information during successive stages of their escape sequence. This suggests that multi-stage anti-predator behaviours serve not only to successively reduce risk but also to increase the quality of information with regards to the actual risk. There are countless reasons why prey animals are not able to accurately assess risk. By concentrating on sensory limitations, we can quantify such information deficits and investigate how improving risk assessment helps prey optimise the balance between predation risk and escape costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Hemmi
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science and Centre for Visual Sciences, Evolution, Ecology and Genetics, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Andreas Pfeil
- Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computer Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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Visual fields, eye movements, and scanning behavior of a sit-and-wait predator, the black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans). J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2009; 196:15-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-009-0488-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2009] [Revised: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/30/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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