Some of you are not able to visit the Gibbon Conservation Center on March 28 or 29. Here is alternative extra credit assignment that can be completed any time and submitted before March 30 at noon.
Los Angeles Zoo website: https://www.lazoo.org
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.
*In either case, be sure to specify any zoo events that may impact the behavior of your chosen animal.
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 the animal’s 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 clothes
2. A clipboard or something flat to write on
3. Writing implements, i.e., pencil or pen
4. Checklist or Diary (always bring extra paper)
5. Phone or a watch
6. Binoculars (if interested)
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 a specific animal(s). Next, decide which sampling technique you will use. If you have a general problem or thesis question that interests you, it will facilitate your decisions.
Create your own observational sheets or diary. You may work in two-person teams or by yourself, but each person will be responsible for turning in their own field observation report.
You are to conduct 2 hours of observation on a specific animal (such as one gorilla or one chimp) OR group of animals OR one hour on two separate animals in order to compare and contrast behaviors.
Send your raw data sheets and a summary of your observation (no more than 1 page) to me via email before March 30 at noon. Be sure to address the data recording and sampling methods chosen and why.