CAB animal observation #2-2

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School

Tulane University *

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Course

ANIMAL BEH

Subject

Anthropology

Date

Oct 30, 2023

Type

pdf

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Uploaded by annieviolingirl

Part 1 : Ethogram Behavior Description Feeding/Foraging The observed squirrel actively searched for and consumed various food items, including acorns, nuts, and seeds. It used its sharp incisors to crack open nuts and manipulate food. The squirrel frequently scanned the surroundings for potential food sources. Mating The focal squirrel engaged in a courtship ritual with another member of the same species. This included chasing and playing tag with the potential mate. Aggression The squirrel displayed territorial aggression by vocalizing and chasing away other squirrels from its preferred feeding areas. Aggressive behaviors included rapid tail flicking and vocalizations. Play The squirrel exhibited play behavior by engaging in acrobatic leaps, chasing its own tail, and running along tree branches. Playful behavior was observed throughout the observation.

Nest Building The observed squirrel was seen gathering leaves, twigs, and other materials to construct a nest in a tree cavity. It used its mouth and paws to arrange materials. Part 2 : Write - Up 1. Common and Scientific Name, Class, and Location i. Eastern gray squirrel b. Scientific Name i. Sciurus carolinensis c. Class i. Mammalia (Mammals) d. Location i. New Orleans, LA ii. New Orleans, Louisiana, typically found in urban and suburban areas, parks, wooded regions, and near human settlements. 2. Animal Environment a. The observation took place in a suburban backyard in New Orleans, Louisiana, where Eastern Gray Squirrels are common. The environment included a mix of mature trees, shrubs, and a bird feeder, which served as a food source for the squirrels. The backyard provided great opportunities for feeding, nesting, and play. 3. Animal Interaction a. The focal squirrel, an adult female, interacted with several conspecifics during the observation. She initiated territorial aggression by vocalizing and chasing away other squirrels attempting to access the bird feeder. Sexual behavior was observed as the female engaged in playful chasing with a male squirrel. Play behavior was also a common occurrence, with the squirrel engaging in acrobatic leaps and chasing its own tail. The squirrel also ate many acorns and seeds in the observed time. 4. Class Concepts a. The class concept of "Umwelt" is crucial to squirrels. Umwelt refers to an animal's unique sensory perception of its environment. For Eastern Gray Squirrels, their Umwelt includes sharp vision, acute hearing, and a great sense of smell. These senses shape how they interact with their surroundings and other

squirrels. Their territorial aggression, foraging, and mate selection behaviors are all influenced by their sensory capabilities within their Umwelt. 5. Sensory system a. The squirrel relied on its sensory system to carry out various behaviors. Its acute vision helped it spot potential threats and resources in the environment. Vocalizations and body language, including tail flicking, were used to communicate and assert dominance or submission. Squirrels also use their sense of smell to locate food sources and detect the presence of other squirrels in their territory. 6. Additional Information a. Eastern Gray Squirrels are adaptable and highly successful in urban and suburban settings, often coexisting with humans. Their playful and acrobatic behavior is a charming characteristic that makes them a favorite among urban wildlife enthusiasts. Observing their behavior provides insights into their strategies for survival and reproduction in human-altered landscapes. b. Koprowski, J. L. (1994). Sciurus carolinensis. Mammalian Species, 480 (480), 1-9.

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