SPUR Project

2011 winner (9 of 20)

An investigation into appropriate personality tests for reptiles

Supervisors: Dr Samantha Bremner-Harrison and Dr Louise Gentle (both Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences)

Students: Natalie Courtney and Hannah Jenkins

In recent years variation between individuals in behaviour associated with ‘personality’ has been highlighted. Variation in personality across a range of traits has been shown in a variety of species however reptiles have been under-represented. The project involved an investigation into determining the most effective method of personality assessment in reptiles by comparing the open field test, novel object test and handling test on reptiles held in the NTU Brackenhurst Animal Unit. It is anticipated that findings from this project will form the basis of future research proposals relating to a project on wild skinks in Mauritius studying the behavioural adaptation of boldness during the establishment of a released population. Student tasks included assisting with research design, undertaking the tests and analysing and reporting on findings.