Differences in escape behaviour among individuals of sand dune lizards (Liolaemus multimaculatus) varying in degree of research disturbance

Abstract

The goal of this work was to assess escape behaviour in individuals of sand dune lizards (Liolaemus multimaculatus) varying in degree of research disturbance. When searching for individuals in the field, the distance between the observer and the lizard before it started escaping (AD) and the distance between the lizards and the closest shelter (DCS), were compared in a disturbed and an undisturbed site. Disturbance was caused by three years research in which lizards were captured, marked and recaptured. The AD averaged 186 cm at the disturbed site and 330 cm at the undisturbed site, whereas the DCS averaged 1,609 cm at the disturbed site and 2,008 cm at the undisturbed site. Both variables showed significant differences between sites (p<0.05). This study supports the idea that research activities that involve manipulation of animals can affect their behaviour.