Repeatable measure of cage trap behaviour to quantify boldness and agitation in a macropod

Abstract

Understanding animal behaviours, such as anti-predator responses, that may affect the outcomes of conservation efforts is important. We developed a measure of boldness and agitation throughout the cage trapping process specific to woylies (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi). The method requires simple answers to questions clearly defined in an ethogram to ensure it is objective and has minimal impact on animal welfare. Across two woylie populations with varying exposure to predators, the measure proved repeatable within individuals, and captured a wide variety of behavioural phenotypes, making it a robust and valuable tool for quantifying the behaviour of woylies and potentially other mammals.