Versatile and inexpensive device for capturing high-quality behavioral videos under diverse field conditions

Abstract

Field experiments are crucial for understanding animal behavior in natural settings, offering insights beyond laboratory conditions. Yet, conducting field experiments can be daunting due to harsh environmental conditions, logistical complexity, and high costs. Here, we introduce GALA (GAzebo LAtino) —a low-budget, portable structure designed to record high-quality behavioral videos under diverse weather conditions. To test GALA, we recorded videos of ant species attracted to protein baits in two conditions: without GALA (CONTROL) and with GALA. We compared video quality by quantifying over-exposure, shadowing, reflections, and blurring. We examined GALA response to harsh weather by recording ants in the Patagonian steppe —an area renowned for its intense winds and significant fluctuations in temperature. We assessed wind speed, illumination levels, temperature, and humidity. GALA improved video quality by addressing over-exposure, shadows, reflections, and blurring. GALA reduced environmental noise by blocking wind, optimizing illumination, and stabilizing temperature and humidity. In addition to these benefits, GALA offers several other strengths —it is straightforward to assemble and transport, and its materials are cost-effective at just US$ 68. Beyond its utility for recording ant species, GALA is also suitable for capturing the behaviors of other terrestrial arthropods, as well as small mammals and reptiles. Employing affordable, user-friendly, and portable devices like GALA enables us to extend laboratory capabilities to the field, enriching our comprehension of wildlife behavior in their native environments. This knowledge is critical for predicting how natural populations respond to environmental changes and guiding evidence-based strategies for biodiversity conservation.