The use of synthetic predator odours to elicit an avoidance response in the roof rat (Rattus rattus) ...

• Main Author: Burwash, Michael David
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: University of British Columbia 2009
• Subjects: Rattus rattus
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.14288/1.0075262; https://doi.library.ubc.ca/10.14288/1.0075262

I evaluated mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus) feces and eight synthetic predator odours for eliciting avoidance responses and/or reduced feeding by captured wild roof rats (Rattus rattus). I released individual rats into an open box stainless steel arena, partitioned in half by a wall with an opening allowing passage from one side to the other, as well as access to a covered "safe area". Each half of the arena contained a bowl with a chunk of coconut and a vial of either water or one of the predator odours. I used a video camera to record: 1) time until each rat entered the arena, 2) time elapsed until first eating bout, 3) time spent in each half of the arena, 4) number of eating bouts and 5) consumption. Although there were no statistical differences in any one variable, rats displayed trends in response to the predator odours in terms of increased elapsed time before initial arena entry and initial eating bout, a lower number of eating bouts and less food consumption, than in the respective control ...