20 Mar
2025
20 Mar
'25
9:35 a.m.
FYI:
3 volunteer research assistants (RAs) are needed this spring and/or summer to assist PhD
student Julie Chase with on-campus fieldwork as part of the Crow Behaviour and Cognition
Project. While primarily field-based, there may be additional chances for RAs to help with
data processing, if interested. This is a unique opportunity for students interested in
both experimental and observational behavioural research on wild animals. No experience is
needed, but punctuality, reliability, and attention to detail are key.
Fieldwork primarily takes place in the morning and the RA would help with any of 4 animal
behaviour projects, on a rotating basis depending on requirements and availability:
(1) A field experiment investigating the effect of urbanization on predator discrimination
ability. Crows are being habituated to a feeding site and then will be presented with a
selection of taxidermy animals. The RA would help Julie with both habituation and
experimental trials from about 0830-1200.
(2) Monitoring breeding behaviour. The RA would help monitor breeding activities in the
approximately 20 crow territories across campus. After training, the RA may undertake this
activity independently and on their own schedule. It is recommended that these
observations are conducted in the morning, as that is when the crows are most active.
(3) Ringing nestling crows. In collaboration with experts from BTO Scotland and Tay
Ringing Group, we will be ringing nestling crows and conducting simple behavioural tests
to determine reactions to the stress of this human handling. This activity will take place
near dawn, so as to minimise the disruption on campus. While this activity is optional, it
is a fantastic opportunity to learn about behavioural research on (very) temporarily
captive animals, as well as new field ecology techniques. The RA would primarily assist
with note taking, sample collection, and maintaining the work area under the climb sites.
(4) Ringing adult crows. Campus crows are currently being habituated to the presence of a
large ladder trap within their territories. The RA would help Julie with setup and
takedown of the trap at approximately 0800-0900 and 1600-1700. This ladder trap will
eventually be used to capture the crows for ringing and simple behavioural tests to
determine reactions to the stress of this human handling. The RA would also have the
opportunity, although optional, to assist with ringing adult crows in the same manner as
for the nestlings.
If interested, please get in touch with Julia Chase (j.e.chase(a)stir.ac.uk).
________________________________
Scotland's University for Sporting Excellence
The University of Stirling is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC 011159