Meeting Abstract

P2.8  Jan. 5  How environmental and physiological conditions influence escape behaviors in lizards: A multifactor measure of risk JORDAN IV, W.J.*; THAKER, M.; Indiana State University; Indiana State University wjjordaniv@hotmail.com

Perception of predation risk is a major factor that influences antipredator tactics. Therefore, a good measure of antipredator behavioral responses could be an indicator of an individual�s perception of risk in a given habitat. In lizards, perception of predation risk has typically been quantified in the field using approach distances, the distance between the focal individual and the observer at the initial sighting of the individual, and flight initiation distances. As predicted, we found a positive correlation between flight initiation distances and approach distances. Theory predicts that environmental factors and the physiological state of the prey will influence its perception of risk. We will discuss the how influences of 1) habitat characteristics, such as vegetative complexity and habitat size, 2) prey densities, and 3) prey physiological state, such as body temperature and condition, influence the perception of risk in Crotaphytus collaris on glade habitats in the Missouri Ozarks.