Primate+Behavior


 * Interactive Notebook: "Primate Behavior at the NC Zoo" **

At the beginning of the school year, we discussed that observation is a critical element in the scientific process (i.e., Does Mr. Wiggs wear a corduroy jacket every Monday?). We also practiced quantifying and analyzing data to answer your research question(s).

You also took on the impossible task of answering the question, “What does it mean to be human?” Although this question may seem loaded and unanswerable, it is relevant. Biologically, we are a Primate. Many of the characteristics that you identified as “human,” are primate characteristics.

This activity will familiarize you with the process of observing and recording animal behavior and data analysis.

Instructions:


 * Click on the [|Primate Live Camera] to see primates in real time.


 * In your interactive notebook, develop a research question that can be answered in the amount of time you have to observe the animal. For example, “Do young animals spend more time playing than adult animals?”; “Do males and females spend the same amount of time eating**?” From your research question, develop a hypothesis that can be tested by observation.**


 * Choose one primate species to observe. The animal will be observed in 4 separate, 5-minute sessions. Every 15 seconds you will take a “snapshot” of the animal’s behavior, at that moment, and record their observations by placing checkmarks in the appropriate box. More than one behavior can be observed during each snapshot.


 * Once you have collected the data, you will write additional notes in your interactive notebook reflecting on your observations. Use exhibit interpretive signs to research additional information that will assist in analyzing the data collected.


 * Tape your Primate Behavior Research Sheet in your interactive notebook.


 * When we return, we will summarize and graph the data to show the occurrence of each behavior during the observation period, and compare the behavior of different primate species at the NC Zoo.

Resources:

Primate Taxonomy [|Primate Live Camera]