Unit 5 – Primates and Primate Evolution – Biology Lecture Notes

Section V. Fundamentals of Primate Behavior

Lab Techniques: Observations of Living Primate Behavior and Morphology

 

The techniques outlined below will be used during your observations of primates during our zoo field trip. Review these techniques and instructions, and examine the attached forms.

 

I. Data Recording Methods

 

            Diary Format: Data is written on blank pieces of paper in a diary format, with dates, times, and

            observations written out, usually a code system is used to abbreviate common terms.

 

            Checklist Format: Data is recorded on a predefined checklist of possible behaviors, correlated

            with times and dates of observations

 

II. Sampling Methods

 

            Ad Lib Sampling: Record any behaviors which seem interesting to you, along with times and

            dates of observations. Best used when little is know beforehand about a groups possible

            behaviors.

 

            Focal Animal Sampling: Record all the behaviors of one individual animal for a set length of

            time. The focal animal may shift in intervals to enable you to record the behavior of the entire

            group.

 

            Scan Sampling: Record the activity of a group or subgroup at selected time intervals only,

            usually 30 seconds, 1 minute, and 5 minutes.

 

III. Equipment Needed

 

            1. Appropriate and comfortable cloths

            2. A clip board or something flat to write on

            3. Writing implements, i.e., pencil or pen

            4. Checklist or Diary recordation paper (always bring extra paper)

            5. A watch with a second hand and/or a stop watch

            6. Binoculars

            7. Camera, if possible

 

IV. Zoo Orientation

 

When you arrive at the zoo, take some time to observe the various primate groups. Choose a group you think you might enjoy watching and one in which you can readily recognize individuals. Next decide which sampling technique you will use, and what kinds of behavior you are interested in. If you have a general problem or thesis question that interests you, it will facilitate your decisions. You may want to focus on behaviors such as play, aggression, mother-child relationships, or sexual interactions. For example, if your group has several juveniles, you may want to focus on play. If your group has a mother with a young child, you might focus on mother-child relationships, etc. You may use the attached forms or create your own. You may work in two-person teams or by yourself, but each person will be responsible for turning in their own field observation report.