Instrumentation for Animal Observation

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This is a proposal to purchase equipment for animal behavior studies. The equipment to be obtained includes video cameras, monitors, video tracking systems, computers and additional image processing and storage devices. The equipment will allow the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior to pursue new controlled laboratory studies that had not been possible before. Research will focus on circadian rhythms, cooperative behavior, mate choice, and movement patterns. The instrumentation will enable automated monitoring of physiology, activity and coloration. Image grabbers will also be used to catalogue representative examples of behavior that can then be used to train students in classifying behavior and to ensure interobserver reliability. The University of Minnesota sponsors two programs that encourage undergraduate research: the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and a research oriented honors.