Equipment and Techniques for Nocturnal Wildlife Studies

• DOI: 10.2193/0091-7648(2006)34[1036:eatfnw]2.0.co;2
• Publication Date: 2006-12-13T23:54:03Z
• Authors: NICHOLE L. ALLISON; STEPHEN DESTEFANO
• Keywords: Night vision; Scope (computer science); Animal Behavior; Dusk

Many biologists speculate on the nocturnal behavior of wildlife. Night-vision technologies may provide ways to move beyond speculation observation activity. Nocturnal activity data collection is often secondary broader study objectives; consequently, techniques for such studies are poorly understood and infrequently used. We reviewed 53 papers examine image enhancement (i.e., night vision) assess trends in research techniques. also conducted a field roosting cranes (Grus spp.) evaluate equipment function efficacy wildlife studies. A third-generation night-vision scope greatly outperformed pair first-generation binoculars, we were able identify by species observe record their behaviors while they roost sites. Techniques reported literature included use moonlight or natural ambient light, spotlight simulated luminosity, remote photography, surveillance radar, infrared thermal imaging, enhancement. With many available, scientists can select procedure combination strategies explicit purpose. believe night-viewing an exceptional, nonintrusive, functional tool ecology However, even best will have problems issues with contrast, inclement weather, large group size density. Regardless specific method used inherent challenges, third-generation, American-manufactured valuable insight into complete life history animals promote more comprehensive approach