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Slovikosky SA, Montgomery RA. Large mammal behavioral defenses induced by the cues of human predation. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae382. [PMID: 39282006 PMCID: PMC11398908 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Large mammals respond to human hunting via proactive and reactive responses, which can induce subsequent nonconsumptive effects (NCEs). Thus, there is evidence that large mammals exhibit considerable behavioral plasticity in response to human hunting risk. Currently, however, it is unclear which cues of human hunting large mammals may be responding to. We conducted a literature review to quantify the large mammal behavioral responses induced by the cues of human hunting. We detected 106 studies published between 1978 and 2022 of which 34 (32%) included at least one measure of cue, typically visual (n = 26 of 106, 25%) or auditory (n = 11 of 106, 10%). Space use (n = 37 of 106, 35%) and flight (n = 31 of 106, 29%) were the most common behavioral responses studied. Among the 34 studies that assessed at least one cue, six (18%) measured large mammal behavioral responses in relation to proxies of human hunting (e.g. hunting site or season). Only 14% (n = 15 of 106) of the studies quantified an NCE associated with an animal's response to human hunting. Moreover, the association between cues measured and antipredator behaviors is unclear due to a consistent lack of controls. Thus, while human hunting can shape animal populations via consumptive effects, the cues triggering these responses are poorly understood. There hence remains a need to link cues, responses, NCEs, and the dynamics of large mammal populations. Human activities can then be adjusted accordingly to prevent both overexploitation and unintended NCEs in animal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy A Slovikosky
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, 11a Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3SZ, United Kingdom
| | - Robert A Montgomery
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, 11a Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3SZ, United Kingdom
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2
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McCampbell M, Spencer M, Hart K, Link G, Watson A, McCleery R. Mammalian lures monitored with time-lapse cameras increase detection of pythons and other snakes. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17577. [PMID: 38938602 PMCID: PMC11210459 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17577] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Enhancing detection of cryptic snakes is critical for the development of conservation and management strategies; yet, finding methods that provide adequate detection remains challenging. Issues with detecting snakes can be particularly problematic for some species, like the invasive Burmese python (Python bivittatus) in the Florida Everglades. Methods Using multiple survey methods, we predicted that our ability to detect pythons, larger snakes and all other snakes would be enhanced with the use of live mammalian lures (domesticated rabbits; Oryctolagus cuniculus). Specifically, we used visual surveys, python detection dogs, and time-lapse game cameras to determine if domesticated rabbits were an effective lure. Results Time-lapse game cameras detected almost 40 times more snakes (n = 375, treatment = 245, control = 130) than visual surveys (n = 10). We recorded 21 independent detections of pythons at treatment pens (with lures) and one detection at a control pen (without lures). In addition, we found larger snakes, and all other snakes were 165% and 74% more likely to be detected at treatment pens compared to control pens, respectively. Time-lapse cameras detected almost 40 times more snakes than visual surveys; we did not detect any pythons with python detection dogs. Conclusions Our study presents compelling evidence that the detection of snakes is improved by coupling live mammalian lures with time-lapse game cameras. Although the identification of smaller snake species was limited, this was due to pixel resolution, which could be improved by changing the camera focal length. For larger snakes with individually distinctive patterns, this method could potentially be used to identify unique individuals and thus allow researchers to estimate population dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina McCampbell
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - McKayla Spencer
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kristen Hart
- Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, United States Geological Survey, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America
| | - Gabrielle Link
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Andrew Watson
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Robert McCleery
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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3
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Amor MD, Barmos S, Cameron H, Hartnett C, Hodgens N, Jamieson LT, May TW, McMullan-Fisher S, Robinson A, Rutter NJ. On the trail of a critically endangered fungus: A world-first application of wildlife detection dogs to fungal conservation. iScience 2024; 27:109729. [PMID: 38799073 PMCID: PMC11123565 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Plant and animal conservation have benefited from the assistance of wildlife detection dogs (WDDs) since 1890, but their application to fungal conservation has not been trialed. In a world-first, we tested the effectiveness of WDDs and human surveyors when searching for experimentally outplanted fungi in natural habitat. We focused on a critically endangered fungus from Australia, Hypocreopsis amplectens, and showed that a WDD outperformed a human surveyor: our WDD detected a greater proportion of targets, had a faster time to first discovery, and had fewer false negatives. Our study highlights the tremendous potential for WDDs to enhance fungal conservation by demonstrating their utility in one of the most challenging fungal systems: a rare species with low population densities and low volatility. Our findings suggest that the application of WDDs to fungal conservation should enhance continuing efforts to document and conserve an understudied kingdom that is threatened by habitat loss and climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Amor
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Aquatic Zoology, Western Australian Museum, Welshpool, WA 6106, Australia
| | - Shari Barmos
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Hayley Cameron
- Centre for Geometric Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Tom W. May
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
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4
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Mejia D, Burnett L, Hebdon N, Stevens P, Shiber A, Cranston C, DeGreeff L, Waldrop LD. Physical properties of odorants affect behavior of trained detection dogs during close-quarters searches. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4843. [PMID: 38418891 PMCID: PMC10902392 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55323-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Trained detection dogs have a unique ability to find the sources of target odors in complex fluid environments. How dogs derive information about the source of an odor from an odor plume comprised of odorants with different physical properties, such as diffusivity, is currently unknown. Two volatile chemicals associated with explosive detection, ammonia (NH3, derived from ammonium nitrate-based explosives) and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (2E1H, associated with composition C4 plastic explosives) were used to ascertain the effects of the physical properties of odorants on the search behavior and motion of trained dogs. NH3 has a diffusivity 3.6 times that of 2E1H. Fourteen civilian detection dogs were recruited to train on each target odorant using controlled odor mimic permeation systems as training aids over 6 weeks and then tested in a controlled-environment search trial where behavior, motion, and search success were analyzed. Our results indicate the target-odorant influences search motion and time spent in the stages of searching, with dogs spending more time in larger areas while localizing NH3. This aligns with the greater diffusivity of NH3 driving diffusion-dominated odor transport when dogs are close to the odor source in contrast to the advection-driven transport of 2E1H at the same distances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mejia
- Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, 92866, USA
| | - Lydia Burnett
- Global Forensic and Justice Center and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Nicholas Hebdon
- Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, 92866, USA
| | | | - Alexis Shiber
- Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, 92866, USA
| | - Clay Cranston
- Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, 92866, USA
| | - Lauryn DeGreeff
- Global Forensic and Justice Center and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Lindsay D Waldrop
- Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, 92866, USA.
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5
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Kane SA, Fernandez LS, Huff DE, Prada-Tiedemann PA, Hall NJ. Canine detection of explosives under adverse environmental conditions with and without acclimation training. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297538. [PMID: 38381723 PMCID: PMC10881013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297538] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Canines are one of the best biological detectors of energetic materials available; however, canine detection of explosives is impacted by a number of factors, including environmental conditions. The objectives of this study were: 1) determine how canine detection limits vary when both the canine and odorant are tested in varying temperature and humidity conditions (canine and odor interactive effects); and 2) determine if an acclimatization plan can improve detection limits in an adverse environmental condition. Eight working line canines were trained to detect four energetics: prill ammonium nitrate (AN), Composition 4 (C4), trinitrotoluene (TNT) and double base smokeless powder (SP). In Experiment 1, canines completed a 3-alternative forced choice 3-down-1-up staircase threshold assessment in five environmental conditions: 40°C and 70% relative humidity (RH), 40°C and 40% RH, 0°C and 90% RH, 0°C and 50% RH and 21°C and 50% RH. Canines showed a 3.5-fold detection limit increase (poorer detection) for C4 in 40°C and 70% RH compared to their detection limit at 21°C and 50% RH. In Experiment 2, the eight canines were split into two groups (n = 4), control and acclimation groups. The control group completed the threshold assessment for C4 at 21°C and 50% RH each day for 20 days, with 5 minutes of petting prior to testing. The acclimation group completed the same assessment daily starting at 21°C and 50% RH but temperature and RH were incremented daily over the course of 6 days to the 40°C and 70% RH condition. After the initial six days, the acclimation group completed daily assessments at 40°C and 70% RH condition for the remainder of the experiment. All acclimatization group canines started their session with 5 minutes of toy or food retrieves. Detection limits for C4 for all dogs were tested in 40°C and 70% RH on day 11 and day 22. The acclimatization plan improved detection limits in the 40°C and 70% RH condition for C4 compared to the non-acclimated group. In this set of experiments, canine detection limits for four explosive odorants were found to vary based on environmental condition and were mostly driven by impacts on the canine rather than odor availability. The acclimatization plan did result in lower detection limits (i.e., increased performance). Future work should determine what factor (exercise or environmental exposure) is more effective in acclimatization for odor detection work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Kane
- Canine Olfaction Research and Education Lab, Davis College of Animal and Food Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Lauren S. Fernandez
- Canine Olfaction Research and Education Lab, Davis College of Animal and Food Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Dillon E. Huff
- Forensic Analytical Chemistry and Odor Profiling Laboratory, Department of Environmental Toxicology at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Paola A. Prada-Tiedemann
- Forensic Analytical Chemistry and Odor Profiling Laboratory, Department of Environmental Toxicology at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel J. Hall
- Canine Olfaction Research and Education Lab, Davis College of Animal and Food Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
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McKeague B, Finlay C, Rooney N. Conservation detection dogs: A critical review of efficacy and methodology. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e10866. [PMID: 38371867 PMCID: PMC10869951 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Conservation detection dogs (CDD) use their exceptional olfactory abilities to assist a wide range of conservation projects through the detection of target specimens or species. CDD are generally quicker, can cover wider areas and find more samples than humans and other analytical tools. However, their efficacy varies between studies; methodological and procedural standardisation in the field is lacking. Considering the cost of deploying a CDD team and the limited financial resources within conservation, it is vital that their performance is quantified and reliable. This review aims to summarise what is currently known about the use of scent detection dogs in conservation and elucidate which factors affect efficacy. We describe the efficacy of CDD across species and situational contexts like training and fieldwork. Reported sensitivities (i.e. the proportion of target samples found out of total available) ranged from 23.8% to 100% and precision rates (i.e. proportion of alerts that are true positives) from 27% to 100%. CDD are consistently shown to be better than other techniques, but performance varies substantially across the literature. There is no consistent difference in efficacy between training, testing and fieldwork, hence we need to understand the factors affecting this. We highlight the key variables that can alter CDD performance. External effects include target odour, training methods, sample management, search methodology, environment and the CDD handler. Internal effects include dog breed, personality, diet, age and health. Unfortunately, much of the research fails to provide adequate information on the dogs, handlers, training, experience and samples. This results in an inability to determine precisely why an individual study has high or low efficacy. It is clear that CDDs can be effective and applied to possibly limitless conservation scenarios, but moving forward researchers must provide more consistent and detailed methodologies so that comparisons can be conducted, results are more easily replicated and progress can be made in standardising CDD work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth McKeague
- School of Biological SciencesQueen's University BelfastBelfastUK
| | | | - Nicola Rooney
- Bristol Veterinary SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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7
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de Miranda-Magalhães AJ, Jantorno GM, Pralon AZ, de Castro MB, de Melo CB. Explosive Detection Dogs: A Perspective from the Personality Profile, Selection, Training Methods, Employment, and Performance to Mitigate a Real Threat. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3773. [PMID: 38136810 PMCID: PMC10741240 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Terrorist organizations have compelled security authorities of every nation to make an increasingly significant commitment toward mitigating the risk of mass casualties and severe financial and property damages. As a result, various security measures have been implemented, including the use of advanced equipment and an uptick in intelligence activities. One of the most effective tools that has yielded outstanding results is the use of explosive detection dogs (EDDs). The nature of EDDs demands a high level of sensitivity given the inherent danger and severity of real threat situations that may involve the risk of explosion. Moreover, the operating procedures for EDDs are unique and distinguishable from other forms of detection. We conducted a review to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject, highlighting the EDDs' personality profile, selection, training methods, performance, and employment, incorporating insights from diverse fields, conducting an analysis, and presenting a perspective on using EDDs to prevent explosion threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antônio J. de Miranda-Magalhães
- Graduate Program in Animal Sciences (PPGCA/FAV), University of Brasilia (UnB), Campus Darcy Ribeiro ICC Sul, Asa Norte, Brasília 70910-900, Federal District, Brazil; (A.J.d.M.-M.); (G.M.J.); (M.B.d.C.)
| | - Gustavo M. Jantorno
- Graduate Program in Animal Sciences (PPGCA/FAV), University of Brasilia (UnB), Campus Darcy Ribeiro ICC Sul, Asa Norte, Brasília 70910-900, Federal District, Brazil; (A.J.d.M.-M.); (G.M.J.); (M.B.d.C.)
| | - Adauto Z. Pralon
- Bomb and Explosives Group (GBE), Policia Federal (PF/SRES), Brasília 70037-900, Federal District, Brazil;
| | - Márcio B. de Castro
- Graduate Program in Animal Sciences (PPGCA/FAV), University of Brasilia (UnB), Campus Darcy Ribeiro ICC Sul, Asa Norte, Brasília 70910-900, Federal District, Brazil; (A.J.d.M.-M.); (G.M.J.); (M.B.d.C.)
| | - Cristiano Barros de Melo
- Graduate Program in Animal Sciences (PPGCA/FAV), University of Brasilia (UnB), Campus Darcy Ribeiro ICC Sul, Asa Norte, Brasília 70910-900, Federal District, Brazil; (A.J.d.M.-M.); (G.M.J.); (M.B.d.C.)
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8
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Lindborg RJ, Peruyero P, Witherington BE. Use of a scent-detection dog for sea turtle nest monitoring of three sea turtle species in Florida. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290740. [PMID: 37703232 PMCID: PMC10499246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sea turtles are threatened with extinction around the world and rely on sandy beaches for laying their eggs. To protect eggs and locate them for calculation of reproductive success, beach surveyors must find the exact placement of each clutch. Eggs may be buried up to one meter deep under a nest mound several square meters in area. To locate sea turtle eggs, beach surveyors might spend hours searching for these eggs hidden in the sand, especially for difficult-to-locate leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) and green turtle (Chelonia mydas) eggs. Scent-detection dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are a novel tool that could provide a means to more accurately identify nests and efficiently locate eggs that need assessment, protection, or relocation. We assessed the effectiveness and feasibility of using a detection dog to locate sea turtle eggs buried in beach sand as compared to the traditional method using human beach surveyors. The detection dog was significantly more accurate in detecting loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) eggs and more efficient (less time spent and fewer holes dug) in assisting with locating the eggs. This case study presents results on the performance of one detection dog only, and additional research is needed with multiple detection dogs and handlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah J. Lindborg
- Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, Lake Buena Vista, FL, United States of America
| | - Pepe Peruyero
- J&K Canine Academy Inc. and Pepedogs™, Alachua, FL, United States of America
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9
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Olfactory threshold of dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) to cold-killed Spotted Lantern Fly eggs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
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10
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Cho S, Park TH. Advances in the Production of Olfactory Receptors for Industrial Use. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200251. [PMID: 36593488 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In biological olfactory systems, olfactory receptors (ORs) can recognize and discriminate between thousands of volatile organic compounds with very high sensitivity and specificity. The superior properties of ORs have led to the development of OR-based biosensors that have shown promising potential in many applications over the past two decades. In particular, newly designed technologies in gene synthesis, protein expression, solubilization, purification, and membrane mimetics for membrane proteins have greatly opened up the previously inaccessible industrial potential of ORs. In this review, gene design, expression and solubilization strategies, and purification and reconstitution methods available for modern industrial applications are examined, with a focus on ORs. The limitations of current OR production technology are also estimated, and future directions for further progress are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongyeon Cho
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Tai Hyun Park
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
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11
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Beaumont SN, Ehlers Smith DA, Ehlers Smith YC, Downs CT. The Development and Application of a Method for Estimating Red-Winged Francolin Population Density with Pointing Dogs in the Midlands, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.3957/056.052.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart N. Beaumont
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - David A. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Yvette C. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Colleen T. Downs
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
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12
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Vincent JL, Vonk J. Aroma-dillo or Area-dillo? An examination of armadillos' sensory modality bias. Behav Processes 2022; 202:104751. [PMID: 36075536 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many species of armadillo demonstrate impressive navigation abilities and may compensate for poor eyesight with a strong sense of smell. We examined which modality four three-banded armadillos and one hairy armadillo prioritized when two cues (olfactory or spatial) previously associated with reward were put in conflict. The armadillos learned to approach one of two locations - each paired with a distinctive scent - for reward. When the scent cues were reversed, the armadillos demonstrated a strong bias for attending to the location cue over the scent cue. Therefore, a follow-up test presented them with the same scents and assessed their spontaneous preferences. Although the armadillos did not show an immediate preference for the previously rewarded scent, they did learn to discriminate two novel scents when they were placed in a circular arena containing two tins - each scented with a unique scent. They learned to selectively open the tins containing reward based on scent. This result indicates that their bias towards location cues was not due to an inability to discriminate between scents. Armadillos may attend to either location or scent but may prioritize location when both cues are equally predictive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy L Vincent
- Oakland University, Department of Psychology, 654 Pioneer Drive, Rochester, MI 48309, USA.
| | - Jennifer Vonk
- Oakland University, Department of Psychology, 654 Pioneer Drive, Rochester, MI 48309, USA.
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13
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Ferrando E, Dahl CD. An investigation on the olfactory capabilities of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Anim Cogn 2022; 25:1567-1577. [PMID: 35689114 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-022-01640-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The extraordinary olfactory capabilities in detection and rescue dogs are well-known. However, the olfactory performance varies by breed and search environment (Jezierski et al. in Forensic Sci Int 237:112-118, 2014), as well as by the quantity of training (Horowitz et al. in Learn Motivation 44(4):207-217, 2013). While detection of an olfactory cue inherently demands a judgment regarding the presence or absence of a cue at a given location, olfactory discrimination requires an assessment of quantity, a task demanding more attention and, hence, decreasing reliability as an informational source (Horowitz et al. 2013). This study aims at gaining more clarity on detection and discrimination of olfactory cues in untrained dogs and in a variety of dog breeds. Using a two-alternative forced choice (2AFC) paradigm, we assessed olfactory detection scores by presenting a varied quantity of food reward under one or the other hidden cup, and discrimination scores by presenting two varied quantities of food reward under both hidden cups. We found relatively reliable detection performances across all breeds and limited discrimination abilities, modulated by breed. We discuss our findings in relation to the cognitive demands imposed by the tasks and the cephalic index of the dog breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Ferrando
- Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- MTA-ELTE 'Lendület' Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
- Department of Ethology, Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Christoph D Dahl
- Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
- Graduate Institute of Mind, Brain and Consciousness, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Brain and Consciousness Research Centre, Taipei Medical University Shuang-Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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Beaumont SN, Ehlers Smith DA, Ehlers Smith YC, Downs CT. The Influence of Environmental Factors on the Detection of Gamebirds by Pointing Dogs in the KwaZulu-Natal Midland Grasslands of South Africa. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.3957/056.052.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart N. Beaumont
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - David A. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Yvette C. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Colleen T. Downs
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
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Maughan MN, Best EM, Gadberry JD, Sharpes CE, Evans KL, Chue CC, Nolan PL, Buckley PE. The Use and Potential of Biomedical Detection Dogs During a Disease Outbreak. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:848090. [PMID: 35445042 PMCID: PMC9014822 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.848090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomedical detection dogs offer incredible advantages during disease outbreaks that are presently unmatched by current technologies, however, dogs still face hurdles of implementation due to lack of inter-governmental cooperation and acceptance by the public health community. Here, we refine the definition of a biomedical detection dog, discuss the potential applications, capabilities, and limitations of biomedical detection dogs in disease outbreak scenarios, and the safety measures that must be considered before and during deployment. Finally, we provide recommendations on how to address and overcome the barriers to acceptance of biomedical detection dogs through a dedicated research and development investment in olfactory sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric M. Best
- Penn State Harrisburg, Harrisburg, PA, United States
| | | | | | - Kelley L. Evans
- Biochemistry Branch, U.S. Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, United States
| | - Calvin C. Chue
- Biochemistry Branch, U.S. Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, United States
| | | | - Patricia E. Buckley
- Biochemistry Branch, U.S. Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, United States
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16
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Andrewartha TA, Evans MJ, Batson WG, Manning AD, Price C, Gordon IJ, Barton PS. Outfoxing the fox: Effect of prey odor on fox behavior in a pastoral landscape. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tim A. Andrewartha
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Acton Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Maldwyn J. Evans
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Acton Australian Capital Territory Australia
- Department of Ecosystem Studies, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - William G. Batson
- Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary ACT Parks and Conservation Service Forde Australian Capital Territory Australia
- Capital Woodlands and Wetlands Conservation Trust Forde Australian Capital Territory Australia
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Blue Mountains Branch Blackheath New South Wales Australia
| | - Adrian D. Manning
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Acton Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Catherine Price
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Iain J. Gordon
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Acton Australian Capital Territory Australia
- Division of Tropical Environments & Societies James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
- The James Hutton Institute Cragiebuckler, Aberdeen Scotland UK
- Land & Water, CSIRO Townsville Australia
| | - Philip S. Barton
- Fenner School of Environment and Society Australian National University Acton Australian Capital Territory Australia
- School of Science, Psychology and Sport Federation University Australia, University Drive Mount Helen Victoria Australia
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Kokocińska-Kusiak A, Woszczyło M, Zybala M, Maciocha J, Barłowska K, Dzięcioł M. Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082463. [PMID: 34438920 PMCID: PMC8388720 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory capability, which far exceeds that of humans. Dogs’ sense of smell seems to be the main sense, allowing them to not only gather both current and historical information about their surrounding environment, but also to find the source of the smell, which is crucial for locating food, danger, or partners for reproduction. Dogs can be trained by humans to use their olfactory abilities in a variety of fields, with a detection limit often much lower than that of sophisticated laboratory instruments. The specific anatomical and physiological features of dog olfaction allow humans to achieve outstanding results in the detection of drugs, explosives, and different illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, or infectious disease. This article provides an overview of the anatomical features and physiological mechanisms involved in the process of odor detection and identification, as well as behavioral aspects of canine olfaction and its use in the service of humans in many fields. Abstract Olfaction in dogs is crucial for gathering important information about the environment, recognizing individuals, making decisions, and learning. It is far more specialized and sensitive than humans’ sense of smell. Using the strength of dogs’ sense of smell, humans work with dogs for the recognition of different odors, with a precision far exceeding the analytical capabilities of most modern instruments. Due to their extremely sensitive sense of smell, dogs could be used as modern, super-sensitive mobile area scanners, detecting specific chemical signals in real time in various environments outside the laboratory, and then tracking the odor of dynamic targets to their source, also in crowded places. Recent studies show that dogs can detect not only specific scents of drugs or explosives, but also changes in emotions as well as in human cell metabolism during various illnesses, including COVID-19 infection. Here, we provide an overview of canine olfaction, discussing aspects connected with anatomy, physiology, behavioral aspects of sniffing, and factors influencing the olfactory abilities of the domestic dog (Canis familiaris).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Kokocińska-Kusiak
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, ul. Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warszawa, Poland; (A.K.-K.); (J.M.)
| | - Martyna Woszczyło
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Mikołaj Zybala
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Doctoral School, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, ul. Konarskiego 2, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland;
| | - Julia Maciocha
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, ul. Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warszawa, Poland; (A.K.-K.); (J.M.)
| | - Katarzyna Barłowska
- Department of Biotechnology and Nutrigenomics, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland;
| | - Michał Dzięcioł
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366 Wrocław, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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Impact of weather conditions on cheetah monitoring with scat detection dogs. JOURNAL OF TROPICAL ECOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0266467421000316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractKnowledge on cheetah population densities across their current range is limited. Therefore, new and efficient assessment tools are needed to gain more knowledge on species distribution, ecology and behaviour. Scat detection dogs have emerged as an efficient and non-invasive method to monitor elusive and vulnerable animal species, like cheetahs, due to the dog’s superior olfactory system. However, the success of locating scat using detection dogs can be significantly improved under suitable weather conditions. We examined the impact of temperature, humidity and wind speed on detection rates of scat from cheetahs during a scat detection dog survey in Northern Kenya. We found that average wind speed positively influences the scat detection rate of detection dogs working on leash. Humidity showed no significant influence. Temperature showed a strong negative correlation with humidity and thus was excluded from our model analyses. While it is likely that wind speed is especially invalid for dogs working off leash, this study did not demonstrate this. Wind speed could thus influence the success of monitoring cheetahs or other target species. Our findings help to improve the survey and thus maximise the coverage of study area and the collection of target samples of elusive and rare species.
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Jinn J, Connor EG, Jacobs LF. How Ambient Environment Influences Olfactory Orientation in Search and Rescue Dogs. Chem Senses 2021; 45:625-634. [PMID: 32940645 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjaa060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Under natural conditions, an animal orienting to an air-borne odor plume must contend with the shifting influence of meteorological variables, such as air temperature, humidity, and wind speed, on the location and the detectability of the plume. Despite their importance, the natural statistics of such variables are difficult to reproduce in the laboratory and hence few studies have investigated strategies of olfactory orientation by mobile animals under different meteorological conditions. Using trained search and rescue dogs, we quantified the olfactory orientation behaviors of dogs searching for a trail (aged 1-3 h) of a hidden human subject in a natural landscape, under a range of meteorological conditions. Dogs were highly successful in locating the human target hidden 800 m from the start location (93% success). Humidity and air temperature had a significant effect on search strategy: as air conditions became cooler and more humid, dogs searched significantly closer to the experimental trail. Dogs also modified their speed and head position according to their search location distance from the experimental trail. When close to the trail, dogs searched with their head up and ran quickly but when their search took them farther from the trail, they were more likely to search with their nose to the ground, moving more slowly. This study of a mammalian species responding to localized shifts in ambient conditions lays the foundation for future studies of olfactory orientation, and the development of a highly tractable mammalian species for such research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Jinn
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Erin G Connor
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Lucia F Jacobs
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Diving in Nose First: The Influence of Unfamiliar Search Scale and Environmental Context on the Search Performance of Volunteer Conservation Detection Dog-Handler Teams. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041177. [PMID: 33924219 PMCID: PMC8074607 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Conservation detection dogs (CDDs) are trained to locate biological material from plants and animals of interest to conservation efforts and are often more effective and economical than other detection methods. However, the financial costs of developing and appropriately caring for CDDs can make them inaccessible for smaller conservation organizations. Training skilled volunteers to work with suitable pet dogs may help increase accessibility. We sought to further develop the skills of 13 volunteer dog–handler teams that were trained in a previous study to detect myrrh essential oil in controlled laboratory conditions. We recorded the proportion of targets found, false alerts made and search duration of the dog–handler team group through progressive training stages outdoors that increased in size and environmental complexity. First, teams searched various-sized areas before and after 12 weeks of search training on a sports-field. Next, teams searched various-sized areas before and after seven weeks of training in bushland. Overall, teams found approximately 20% fewer targets in each unfamiliar context, compared to performance in familiar contexts. However, teams typically found 10–20% more targets after a period of training compared to baseline searches. Search performance varied between teams, yet six teams found at least 78% of targets after training in bushland. Our results help to validate our stepped approach to training and highlight the need to train volunteer CDD teams to work in various-sized areas and environments. Abstract Conservation detection dogs (CDDs) are trained to locate biological material from plants and animals of interest to conservation efforts and are often more effective and economical than other detection methods. However, the financial costs of developing and appropriately caring for CDDs can nonetheless prohibit their use, particularly by smaller conservation organizations. Training skilled volunteers to work with suitable pet dogs may help address this constraint. We sought to further develop the skills of 13 volunteer dog–handler teams that were trained in a previous study to detect myrrh essential oil in controlled laboratory conditions. We assessed search sensitivity, search effort, search precision and false-alert instances through progressive training stages increasing in size and environmental complexity. First, teams searched various-sized areas before and after 12 weeks of search training on a sports-field. Next, teams searched various-sized areas before and after seven weeks of training in bushland. Overall, search sensitivity decreased by approximately 20% in each unfamiliar context, compared to performance in familiar contexts. However, sensitivity typically improved from baseline performance by 10–20% after a period of training. Six teams found at least 78% of targets after training in bushland, yet sensitivity ranged from 29% to 86% between teams. We maintain that the foundational skills developed previously were necessary to prepare volunteer teams for field surveys involving conservation related targets. However, our results highlight the need to also train volunteer CDD teams in search scale and environmental contexts similar to their intended working conditions.
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Reynolds MH, Johnson KN, Schvaneveldt ER, Dewey DL, Uyehara KJ, Hess SC. Efficacy of detection canines for avian botulism surveillance and mitigation. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H. Reynolds
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center Hawaii National Park Hawaii USA
| | | | - Eleni R. Schvaneveldt
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center Hawaii National Park Hawaii USA
| | - Daniel L. Dewey
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Kauaʻi National Wildlife Refuge Complex Kīlauea Hawaii USA
| | - Kimberly J. Uyehara
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Kauaʻi National Wildlife Refuge Complex Kīlauea Hawaii USA
| | - Steven C. Hess
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center Hawaii National Park Hawaii USA
- USDA‐APHIS‐WS National Wildlife Research Center Hilo HI USA
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Needs S, Bennett E, Mao B, Hauser CE. Do detection dogs respond differently to dried, frozen and live plant targets? Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Cunningham EP, Edmonds D, Stalter L, Janal MN. Ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) use olfaction to locate distant fruit. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2021; 175:300-307. [PMID: 33624841 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As many primates live in forests where visibility is limited, the ability to detect the aroma of distant fruit and navigate odor plumes would be highly adaptive. Our study is the first to investigate this ability with strepsirrhine primates. MATERIALS AND METHODS We tested the ability of a group of ring-tailed lemurs to detect hidden fruit from afar using scent alone. We hid containers in the underbrush of a semi-natural forest, some baited with real cantaloupe and some with sham cantaloupe, 4-17 m from a path routinely used by the lemurs. Crucially, the containers were not visible from the path. Therefore, the lemurs had to use olfactory cues, but did not have to prioritize them to locate the bait. RESULTS The lemurs found the real cantaloupe on days that the wind blew the scent of the fruit toward the trail. They did not find the sham cantaloupe. Upon detecting the odor of the bait, the lemurs sniffed the air at one or more locations as they moved toward the bait, a process of navigation known as klinotaxis. DISCUSSION The traditional belief is that primates are unable to track odor plumes. The untrained lemurs in this study were able to detect the odor of the cantaloupe among the complex odors of the forest and navigate the odor plume to the fruit. The results indicate that olfaction may be used to respond to cues from distant sources. The ability to track odor plumes may be a critical foraging skill for strepsirrhines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena P Cunningham
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, New York, 10010, USA
| | - Devin Edmonds
- Lemur Conservation Foundation, Myakka City, Florida, USA.,Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Laura Stalter
- Lemur Conservation Foundation, Myakka City, Florida, USA.,University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Malvin N Janal
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, New York, 10010, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, New York University College of Dentistry, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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The olfactory capability of dogs to discriminate between different quantities of food. Learn Behav 2021; 49:321-329. [PMID: 33620699 DOI: 10.3758/s13420-021-00463-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A previous study failed to find evidence that dogs could use olfactory cues to discriminate between 1 and 5 hot dog slices presented on a single trial (Horowitz et al., Learning and Motivation, 44, 207-217, 2013). In the experiments reported here, multiple trials were used to test dogs' ability to use olfaction to choose one of two opaque containers under which a larger number of food items was placed. In Experiment 1, dogs chose between 1 and 5 hot dog slices. In Experiments 2 and 3, we examined dogs' ability to discriminate between numbers of hot dog slices that varied in the numerical distance and the ratio between the smaller and larger quantities. Experiment 4 explored olfactory discrimination between quantities of a different food, dog kibble. Experiments 1-3 all showed that dogs used olfactory stimuli to choose the larger number of hot dog slices, but Experiments 2 and 3 revealed no effects of distance or ratio between numerical quantities. In Experiment 4, dogs failed to discriminate between 1 and 5 pieces of dog kibble. Factors that allow dogs to use olfactory cues to discriminate between quantities are discussed.
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Matthew EE, Verster R, Weldon C. A case study in canine detection of giant bullfrog scent. JOURNAL OF VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.25225/jvb.20043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Esther E. Matthew
- Specialist Conservation Officer, The Endangered Wildlife Trust, Loxton, Northern Cape, South Africa; e-mail:
| | - Ruhan Verster
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; e-mail:
| | - Ché Weldon
- Professor in Zoology, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; e-mail:
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Bearman-Brown LE, Wilson LE, Evans LC, Baker PJ. Comparing non-invasive surveying techniques for elusive, nocturnal mammals: a case study of the West European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus). JOURNAL OF VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.25225/jvb.20075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luke C. Evans
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom; e-mail: ,
| | - Philip J. Baker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom; e-mail: ,
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Canine Olfactory Detection of a Non-Systemic Phytobacterial Citrus Pathogen of International Quarantine Significance. ENTROPY 2020; 22:e22111269. [PMID: 33287037 PMCID: PMC7712947 DOI: 10.3390/e22111269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
For millennia humans have benefitted from application of the acute canine sense of smell to hunt, track and find targets of importance. In this report, canines were evaluated for their ability to detect the severe exotic phytobacterial arboreal pathogen Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), which is the causal agent of Asiatic citrus canker (Acc). Since Xcc causes only local lesions, infections are non-systemic, limiting the use of serological and molecular diagnostic tools for field-level detection. This necessitates reliance on human visual surveys for Acc symptoms, which is highly inefficient at low disease incidence, and thus for early detection. In simulated orchards the overall combined performance metrics for a pair of canines were 0.9856, 0.9974, 0.9257 and 0.9970, for sensitivity, specificity, precision, and accuracy, respectively, with 1–2 s/tree detection time. Detection of trace Xcc infections on commercial packinghouse fruit resulted in 0.7313, 0.9947, 0.8750, and 0.9821 for the same performance metrics across a range of cartons with 0–10% Xcc-infected fruit despite the noisy, hot and potentially distracting environment. In orchards, the sensitivity of canines increased with lesion incidence, whereas the specificity and overall accuracy was >0.99 across all incidence levels; i.e., false positive rates were uniformly low. Canines also alerted to a range of 1–12-week-old infections with equal accuracy. When trained to either Xcc-infected trees or Xcc axenic cultures, canines inherently detected the homologous and heterologous targets, suggesting they can detect Xcc directly rather than only volatiles produced by the host following infection. Canines were able to detect the Xcc scent signature at very low concentrations (10,000× less than 1 bacterial cell per sample), which implies that the scent signature is composed of bacterial cell volatile organic compound constituents or exudates that occur at concentrations many fold that of the bacterial cells. The results imply that canines can be trained as viable early detectors of Xcc and deployed across citrus orchards, packinghouses, and nurseries.
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Fidino M, Barnas GR, Lehrer EW, Murray MH, Magle SB. Effect of Lure on Detecting Mammals with Camera Traps. WILDLIFE SOC B 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.1122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mason Fidino
- Lincoln Park Zoo 2001 N Clark Street Chicago IL 60614 USA
| | | | | | | | - Seth B. Magle
- Lincoln Park Zoo 2001 N Clark Street Chicago IL 60614 USA
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Lankist ZK, Maher CR. Snowshoe hare feeding behavior responds to coyote and moose cues at diverse vegetation densities. J Mammal 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyaa025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Heterospecific competitors can use chemical cues left by dominant species to avoid aggressive interactions. Similarly, prey avoid chemical cues from predators at feeding sites, presumably because risk of death outweighs the benefit of food. This study addressed the lack of information regarding mammals’ avoidance of direct cues from competitors and also examined how indirect cues, i.e., vegetative cover, affect foraging behavior. To test if chemical cues and vegetative cover alter the number of visits by prey species and time spent at feeding plots, we observed snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) in plots containing coyote (Canis latrans; predator) and moose (Alces alces; competitor) urine across a spectrum of vegetation densities. Snowshoe hares significantly reduced number of visits to plots that contained coyote or moose urine. In plots treated with coyote urine, number of visits decreased significantly as plots became more densely vegetated. Neither chemical cues nor vegetation density affected time spent in plots. These results suggest that competition between snowshoe hares and moose has selected for an avoidance response. This study also reinforces the idea that an increase in vegetation density could prove disadvantageous to prey, perhaps because some predators use dense vegetation to their advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary K Lankist
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern Maine, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Christine R Maher
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern Maine, Portland, ME, USA
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Detecting small and cryptic animals by combining thermography and a wildlife detection dog. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5220. [PMID: 32251332 PMCID: PMC7090052 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61594-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Small and cryptic species are challenging to detect and study in their natural habitat. Many of these species are of conservation concern, and conservation efforts may be hampered by the lack of basic information on their ecological needs. Brown hare (Lepus europaeus) leverets - one example of such a small, cryptic and endangered animal - are notoriously difficult to detect, and therefore data on wild leverets are virtually non-existent. Novel technologies and methods such as thermal imaging and the use of wildlife detection dogs represent suitable means for the detection of such species by overcoming the problem of camouflage, using heat or scent emission respectively. Our study on brown hare leverets provides information on how to apply these new techniques successfully for the detection of small and cryptic species, thus enabling the collection of data that was previously inaccessible (e.g. behavioural observation, radio tagging). We found that the choice of method should be made according to vegetative structure. While the handheld thermal imaging camera is best used in areas with no or low vegetative cover, the thermal drone can be used up to medium vegetative cover, whereas the detection dog method is best applied where vegetation is very dense and not suitable to be searched using thermography. Being able to search all sort of different vegetation types, our combined approach enables the collection of a balanced and unbiased dataset regarding habitat type and hence selection of study specimen. We hope that the use of these new techniques will encourage research on many cryptic species that formerly have been neglected because they could not be detected using conventional methodologies.
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Canine olfactory detection of a vectored phytobacterial pathogen, Liberibacter asiaticus, and integration with disease control. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:3492-3501. [PMID: 32015115 PMCID: PMC7035627 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1914296117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Exotic infectious pathogens, like citrus huanglongbing (HLB), are increasingly introduced into agrosystems. Early detection is the key to mitigating their destructive effects. Human visual assessment is insufficiently sensitive to detect new plant infections in a responsive timeframe, and molecular assays are expensive and not easily deployable over large crop landscapes. We turned to detector dogs, an ancient technology, which can rapidly survey large plantings without laborious sample collection or laboratory processing. Dogs detected infections (>99% accuracy) weeks to years prior to visual survey and molecular methods and were highly specific, accurately discriminating target pathogens from other pathogens. Epidemiological models indicated that dogs were more effective and economical than current early detection methods for sustainable disease control. Early detection and rapid response are crucial to avoid severe epidemics of exotic pathogens. However, most detection methods (molecular, serological, chemical) are logistically limited for large-scale survey of outbreaks due to intrinsic sampling issues and laboratory throughput. Evaluation of 10 canines trained for detection of a severe exotic phytobacterial arboreal pathogen, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), demonstrated 0.9905 accuracy, 0.8579 sensitivity, and 0.9961 specificity. In a longitudinal study, cryptic CLas infections that remained subclinical visually were detected within 2 wk postinfection compared with 1 to 32 mo for qPCR. When allowed to interrogate a diverse range of in vivo pathogens infecting an international citrus pathogen collection, canines only reacted to Liberibacter pathogens of citrus and not to other bacterial, viral, or spiroplasma pathogens. Canines trained to detect CLas-infected citrus also alerted on CLas-infected tobacco and periwinkle, CLas-bearing psyllid insect vectors, and CLas cocultured with other bacteria but at CLas titers below the level of molecular detection. All of these observations suggest that canines can detect CLas directly rather than only host volatiles produced by the infection. Detection in orchards and residential properties was real time, ∼2 s per tree. Spatiotemporal epidemic simulations demonstrated that control of pathogen prevalence was possible and economically sustainable when canine detection was followed by intervention (i.e., culling infected individuals), whereas current methods of molecular (qPCR) and visual detection failed to contribute to the suppression of an exponential trajectory of infection.
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Petersen WJ, Savini T, Steinmetz R, Ngoprasert D. Periodic resource scarcity and potential for interspecific competition influences distribution of small carnivores in a seasonally dry tropical forest fragment. Mamm Biol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Droghini A, Boutin S. The calm during the storm: Snowfall events decrease the movement rates of grey wolves (Canis lupus). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205742. [PMID: 30379852 PMCID: PMC6209196 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian predators encounter unique hunting challenges during the winter as snow increases the cost of locomotion and influences predator-prey interactions. Winter precipitation may also affect predators’ ability to detect and pursue prey. We investigated the effects of snowfall events on grey wolves (Canis lupus) in a boreal forest ecosystem in northeastern Alberta, Canada. We predicted that wolves would respond to snowfall events by reducing their travel speed and the time they spent travelling. Over the course of two winters, we used remote cameras to identify localized snowfall events and estimate snow depth. We used telemetry data from 17 wolves to calculate travel speed and time spent travelling versus resting. Data were categorized by time of day (night versus day) and time since snowfall events, and analyzed using linear and logistic regression mixed-effects models. We found that wolves were less likely to travel on dates of snowfall events than any date prior to or after an event. Wolves also travelled slower during snowfall events, but only when compared to their travel speed 24 hours before. Effects were most pronounced at night, when movements appeared to be consistent with hunting behavior, and activity levels resumed within 24 hours of a snowfall event. Including snow depth as a variable did not improve model fit. Collectively, our findings suggest that wolves’ response is not driven by increased hunting success or by energetic considerations resulting from increased snow depth. Instead, we propose that wolves reduce their activity levels because precipitation dampens hunting success. Snowfall events may impact wolves’ ability to detect prey and changes in prey behavior could also lead to decreased encounter rates. We encourage scientists to further investigate the effects of short-term weather events on movement rates and predator-prey interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Droghini
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Stan Boutin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Glen AS, Veltman CJ. Search strategies for conservation detection dogs. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alistair S. Glen
- A. S. Glen , Manaaki Whenna— Landcare Research, Private Bag 92170, Auc
| | - Clare J. Veltman
- C. J. Veltman, Dept of Conservation, c/o Manaaki Whenua — Landcare Research, Palmerston North, New Z
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Mosconi F, Campanaro A, Carpaneto GM, Chiari S, Hardersen S, Mancini E, Maurizi E, Sabatelli S, Zauli A, Mason F, Audisio P. Training of a dog for the monitoring of Osmoderma eremita. NATURE CONSERVATION 2017. [DOI: 10.3897/natureconservation.20.12688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Windscapes and olfactory foraging in a large carnivore. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46332. [PMID: 28402340 PMCID: PMC5389353 DOI: 10.1038/srep46332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The theoretical optimal olfactory search strategy is to move cross-wind. Empirical evidence supporting wind-associated directionality among carnivores, however, is sparse. We examined satellite-linked telemetry movement data of adult female polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Hudson Bay, Canada, in relation to modelled winds, in an effort to understand olfactory search for prey. In our results, the predicted cross-wind movement occurred most frequently at night during winter, the time when most hunting occurs, while downwind movement dominated during fast winds, which impede olfaction. Migration during sea ice freeze-up and break-up was also correlated with wind. A lack of orientation during summer, a period with few food resources, likely reflected reduced cross-wind search. Our findings represent the first quantitative description of anemotaxis, orientation to wind, for cross-wind search in a large carnivore. The methods are widely applicable to olfactory predators and their prey. We suggest windscapes be included as a habitat feature in habitat selection models for olfactory animals when evaluating what is considered available habitat.
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38
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Johnen D, Heuwieser W, Fischer-Tenhagen C. An approach to identify bias in scent detection dog testing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
In two experiments, we investigated the impact of odor preexposure treatments on the acquisition of an olfactory discrimination in dogs. In the first experiment, four groups of dogs were each given five days' odor-exposure treatment prior to discrimination training. Dogs in the exposure group were exposed to anise extract (S+) for 30 min daily. Dogs in the Pavlovian-relevant pairing group received six daily delayed-conditioning trials to the same S+. The Pavlovian-irrelevant pairing group received conditioning trials to almond extract (S'). Dogs in the control group received no pretreatment. All of the dogs were then trained to detect S+ from a background pine odor (an AX-vs.-X discrimination). The Pavlovian-relevant pairing group acquired the odor discrimination significantly faster than all of the other exposure and control groups, and the remaining groups acquired the discrimination at the same rate as the no-exposure control group. In a second experiment, we extended these results to a within-subjects design using an AX-versus-BX discrimination. Six dogs were simultaneously trained on two different odor discriminations, one discrimination in which the S+ was previously Pavlovian conditioned, and one discrimination in which the S+ was novel. All of the dogs learned the odor discrimination with the previously conditioned S+ faster than they learned the novel odor discrimination, replicating the results of Experiment 1, and demonstrating that familiarity in the form of Pavlovian conditioning enhances odor-discrimination training. The potential mechanisms of the facilitated transfer of a Pavlovian conditioned stimulus to discrimination training are discussed.
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Polgár Z, Kinnunen M, Újváry D, Miklósi Á, Gácsi M. A Test of Canine Olfactory Capacity: Comparing Various Dog Breeds and Wolves in a Natural Detection Task. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0154087. [PMID: 27152412 PMCID: PMC4859551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0154087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many dog breeds are bred specifically for increased performance in scent-based tasks. Whether dogs bred for this purpose have higher olfactory capacities than other dogs, or even wolves with whom they share a common ancestor, has not yet been studied. Indeed, there is no standard test for assessing canine olfactory ability. This study aimed to create a simple procedure that requires no pre-training and to use it to measure differences in olfactory capacity across four groups of canines: (1) dog breeds that have been selected for their scenting ability; (2) dog breeds that have been bred for other purposes; (3) dog breeds with exaggerated short-nosed features; and (4) hand-reared grey wolves. The procedure involved baiting a container with raw turkey meat and placing it under one of four identical ceramic pots. Subjects were led along the row of pots and were tasked with determining by olfaction alone which of them contained the bait. There were five levels of increasing difficulty determined by the number of holes on the container's lid. A subsample of both dogs and wolves was retested to assess reliability. The results showed that breeds selected for scent work were better than both short-nosed and non-scent breeds. In the most difficult level, wolves and scenting breeds performed better than chance, while non-scenting and short-nosed breeds did not. In the retested samples wolves improved their success; however, dogs showed no change in their performances indicating that a single test may be reliable enough to assess their capacity. Overall, we revealed measurable differences between dog breeds in their olfactory abilities and suggest that the Natural Detection Task is a good foundation for developing an efficient way of quantifying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zita Polgár
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mari Kinnunen
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ecology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Dóra Újváry
- Institute for Wildlife Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Ádám Miklósi
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márta Gácsi
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
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Lai S, Bêty J, Berteaux D. Spatio-temporal hotspots of satellite-tracked arctic foxes reveal a large detection range in a mammalian predator. MOVEMENT ECOLOGY 2015; 3:37. [PMID: 26568827 PMCID: PMC4644628 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-015-0065-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The scale at which animals perceive their environment is a strong fitness determinant, yet few empirical estimates of animal detection ranges exist, especially in mammalian predators. Using daily Argos satellite tracking of 26 adult arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) during a single winter in the High Canadian Arctic, we investigated the detection range of arctic foxes by detecting hotspots of fox activity on the sea ice. RESULTS While maintaining territories in the tundra, these solitary foragers occasionally used the sea ice where they sometimes formed spatio-temporal hotspots, likely scavenging on marine mammal carcasses. We detected 35 movements by 13 individuals forming five hotspots. Foxes often traveled more than 10 km, and up to 40 km, to reach hotspots, which lasted one-two weeks and could gather up to 12 individuals. The likelihood of a fox joining a hotspot was neither influenced by its distance from the hotspot nor by the distance of its home range to the coast. CONCLUSIONS Observed traveling distances may indicate a high detection range in arctic foxes, and our results suggest their ability to detect food sources on the sea ice from their terrestrial home range. While revealing a wide knowledge gap regarding resource detection abilities in mammalian predators, our study provides estimates of detection range useful for interpreting and modeling animal movements. It also allows a better understanding of foraging behavior and navigation capacity in terrestrial predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lai
- Canada Research Chair on Northern Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Center for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1 Canada
| | - Joël Bêty
- Canada Research Chair on Northern Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Center for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1 Canada
| | - Dominique Berteaux
- Canada Research Chair on Northern Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Center for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1 Canada
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Chambers CL, Vojta CD, Mering ED, Davenport B. Efficacy of scent-detection dogs for locating bat roosts in trees and snags. WILDLIFE SOC B 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carol L. Chambers
- School of Forestry; Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff AZ 86011 USA
| | - Christina D. Vojta
- Landscape Conservation Initiative; Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff AZ 86011 USA
| | | | - Barbara Davenport
- PackLeader Dog Training LLC; 14401 Crews Road KPN Gig Harbor WA 98329 USA
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Strategies Used by Pet Dogs for Solving Olfaction-Based Problems at Various Distances. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131610. [PMID: 26176609 PMCID: PMC4503413 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The olfactory acuity of domestic dogs has been well established through numerous studies on trained canines, however whether untrained dogs spontaneously utilize this ability for problem solving is less clear. In the present paper we report two studies that examine what strategies family dogs use in two types of olfaction-based problems as well as their success at various distances. In Study 1, thirty dogs were tasked with distinguishing a target, either their covered owner (Exp 1) or baited food (Exp 2), from three visually identical choices at distances of 0m (touching distance), 1m, and 3m. There were nine consecutive trials for each target. We found that in Exp 1 the dogs successfully chose their owners over strangers at 0m and 1m, but not at 3m, where they used a win-stay strategy instead. In Exp 2 the dogs were only successful in choosing the baited pot at 0m. They used the win-stay strategy at 1m, but chose randomly at 3m. In Study 2, a different group of dogs was tested with their owners (Exp 1) and baited food (Exp 2) at just the 3m distance with two possible targets in 10-10 trials. In Exp 1 the dogs’ overall performance was at chance level; however, when analyzed by trial, we noticed that despite tending to find their owners on the first trial, they generally switched to a win-stay strategy in subsequent trials, only to return to correctly choosing their owners based on olfaction in the later trials. In Exp 2, the dogs chose randomly throughout. We also found that dogs who relied on visual information in the warm-up trials were less successful in the olfaction-based test. Our results suggest that despite their ability to successfully collect information through olfaction, family dogs often prioritize other strategies to solve basic choice tasks.
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Greatbatch I, Gosling RJ, Allen S. Quantifying Search Dog Effectiveness in a Terrestrial Search and Rescue Environment. Wilderness Environ Med 2015; 26:327-34. [PMID: 25998861 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is widespread and longstanding use of dogs in land search and rescue (SAR) operations, and their effectiveness is well accepted within the SAR community. However, very little published research exists that quantifies that effectiveness within a realistic SAR environment. METHODS This study included 25 experiments, conducted between October 2013 and February 2014 with 10 dog/handler pairs, using randomized target placement to calculate the ratio of hits, misses, and false positives per dog. Each dog was fitted with a GPS receiver to record their paths and ambient temperature. Wind strength and humidity were recorded throughout each run. RESULTS There was no identifiable correlation between humidity, temperature, or wind speed and effectiveness, but the age of the dog has a small positive correlation. Using a standard effectiveness formula, basic descriptive statistics were generated, which showed that the dogs tested were 76.4% successful overall, with an effectiveness of 62.9%. Dogs covered a mean distance 2.4 times greater than their human handlers but travelled at roughly average human walking speed. CONCLUSIONS This work represents a first attempt to quantify and understand levels of performance in lowland search dogs, and these results need to be understood within that context. A repeatable experimental framework has been demonstrated and provides a foundation for further work in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Greatbatch
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing, Kingston University London, London, UK (Dr Greatbatch and Ms Allen).
| | | | - Sophie Allen
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing, Kingston University London, London, UK (Dr Greatbatch and Ms Allen)
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45
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Hall NJ, Smith DW, Wynne CDL. Pavlovian conditioning enhances resistance to disruption of dogs performing an odor discrimination. J Exp Anal Behav 2015; 103:484-97. [PMID: 25912271 DOI: 10.1002/jeab.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Domestic dogs are used to aid in the detection of a variety of substances such as narcotics and explosives. Under real-world detection situations there are many variables that may disrupt the dog's performance. Prior research on behavioral momentum theory suggests that higher rates of reinforcement produce greater resistance to disruption, and that this is heavily influenced by the stimulus-reinforcer relationship. The present study tests the Pavlovian interpretation of resistance to change using dogs engaged in an odor discrimination task. Dogs were trained on two odor discriminations that alternated every six trials akin to a multiple schedule in which the reinforcement probability for a correct response was always 1. Dogs then received several sessions of either odor Pavlovian conditioning to the S+ of one odor discrimination (Pavlovian group) or explicitly unpaired exposure to the S+ of one odor discrimination (Unpaired group). The remaining odor discrimination pair for each dog always remained an unexposed control. Resistance to disruption was assessed under presession feeding, a food-odor disruptor condition, and extinction, with baseline sessions intervening between disruption conditions. Equivalent baseline detection rates were observed across experimental groups and odorant pairs. Under disruption conditions, Pavlovian conditioning led to enhanced resistance to disruption of detection performance compared to the unexposed control odor discrimination. Unpaired odor conditioning did not influence resistance to disruption. These results suggest that changes in Pavlovian contingencies are sufficient to influence resistance to change.
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46
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Intensive training technique utilizing the dog’s olfactory abilities to diagnose prostate cancer in men. ACTA VET BRNO 2015. [DOI: 10.2754/avb201585010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Carcinoma of the prostate is a commonly occurring malignant tumour in men and is a common cause of death. Early diagnosis and therapy is crucial for the successful treatment of this serious disease. It is therefore desirable to develop a sufficiently reliable, minimally invasive, and inexpensive method of diagnosing prostate cancer, which would usefully supplement the diagnostic techniques currently in common use (digital rectal examination, measuring the prostate-specific antigen level in serum, transrectal ultrasonography). This article describes in detail the methodology of a new technique for intensive training aimed at developing the dog’s olfactory abilities to diagnose carcinoma of the prostate in men while the animal is still young. At the same time, the rate of success in establishing the diagnosis of prostate cancer in men using this method was evaluated based on the identification of urine samples from patients in whom the disease was histologically confirmed. The results of our study demonstrate that the diagnosis of prostate cancer in men using the olfactory abilities of a specially trained dog can be considered a reliable, non-invasive, and relatively inexpensive method of diagnosing carcinoma of the prostate.
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Concha A, Mills DS, Feugier A, Zulch H, Guest C, Harris R, Pike TW. Using sniffing behavior to differentiate true negative from false negative responses in trained scent-detection dogs. Chem Senses 2014; 39:749-54. [PMID: 25214467 PMCID: PMC4201303 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bju045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
False negatives are recorded in every chemical detection system, but when animals are used as a scent detector, some false negatives can arise as a result of a failure in the link between detection and the trained alert response, or a failure of the handler to identify the positive alert. A false negative response can be critical in certain scenarios, such as searching for a live person or detecting explosives. In this study, we investigated whether the nature of sniffing behavior in trained detection dogs during a controlled scent-detection task differs in response to true positives, true negatives, false positives, and false negatives. A total of 200 videos of 10 working detection dogs were pseudorandomly selected and analyzed frame by frame to quantify sniffing duration and the number of sniffing episodes recorded in a Go/No-Go single scent-detection task using an eight-choice test apparatus. We found that the sniffing duration of true negatives is significantly shorter than false negatives, true positives, and false positives. Furthermore, dogs only ever performed one sniffing episode towards true negatives, but two sniffing episodes commonly occurred in the other situations. These results demonstrate how the nature of sniffing can be used to more effectively assess odor detection by dogs used as biological detection devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Concha
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Joseph Banks Building, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK,
| | - Daniel S Mills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Joseph Banks Building, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Alexandre Feugier
- Royal Canin SAS, Avenue de la petite Camargue, Aimargues F-30470, France and
| | - Helen Zulch
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Joseph Banks Building, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Claire Guest
- Medical Detection Dogs, 3 Millfield, Greenway Business Park, Great Horwood, Milton Keynes MK17 0NP, UK
| | - Rob Harris
- Medical Detection Dogs, 3 Millfield, Greenway Business Park, Great Horwood, Milton Keynes MK17 0NP, UK
| | - Thomas W Pike
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Joseph Banks Building, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
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48
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Training domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) on a novel discrete trials odor-detection task. LEARNING AND MOTIVATION 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lmot.2013.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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49
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Bensky MK, Gosling SD, Sinn DL. The World from a Dog’s Point of View. ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF BEHAVIOR 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407186-5.00005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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50
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Du L, Wu C, Liu Q, Huang L, Wang P. Recent advances in olfactory receptor-based biosensors. Biosens Bioelectron 2012; 42:570-80. [PMID: 23261691 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 09/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The biological olfactory system can recognize and discriminate thousands of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with extremely high sensitivity and specificity. The most fundamental elements are olfactory receptors (ORs) in the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs), which contribute greatly to the high-performance olfactory system. The excellent properties of ORs are generally recognized in the development of biomimetic OR-based biosensors. Over the past two decades, much work has been done in developing OR-based biosensors due to their promising potential in many applications. In this article, we will outline the latest advances of OR-based biosensors. Two current crucial issues in this field will be discussed, namely, the production methods and immobilization techniques of ORs. We will also elaborate on various OR-based biosensors and their latest developments. Finally, current research trends and future challenges in this field will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Du
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
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