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Using motion-detection cameras to monitor foraging behaviour of individual butterflies

Summary

Researchers used motion-activated cameras to study how butterflies search for food. They found that pollen-feeding Heliconius butterflies consistently return to the same flowers and spend longer feeding times, while related butterfly species visit more different flowers quickly. Females forage earlier in the day than males. This camera trap method proved effective for tracking butterfly behavior without disturbing them.

Background

Monitoring animal foraging behavior is challenging and labor-intensive. Motion-detection cameras offer a modern, affordable alternative to traditional monitoring methods. This study evaluates the feasibility of using camera traps to track foraging behavior in Heliconiini butterflies, which show unique pollen-feeding adaptations.

Objective

To assess the use of motion-activated camera traps to monitor floral visitation and foraging patterns in individual butterflies, specifically comparing pollen-feeding Heliconius species with non-pollen feeding related species. The study aims to describe spatial and temporal foraging patterns and evaluate trapline behavior.

Results

Camera traps successfully captured 87.9% of marked individuals in trial 1 and 64.8% in trial 2. Butterflies showed higher morning activity with strong temporal niche overlap between species. Females foraged earlier than males. Heliconius species showed greater flower fidelity with longer feeding bouts, while non-Heliconius visited more flowers per day with shorter bouts, suggesting differences in spatial learning and foraging preferences.

Conclusion

Motion-detection cameras effectively capture foraging behavior in butterflies and reveal species and sex-specific patterns consistent with field observations. The data demonstrate that Heliconius have more stable spatial memory and foraging preferences than related genera, supporting the hypothesis that pollen-feeding behavioral strategies are derived. Camera traps offer a powerful, non-invasive tool for monitoring insect foraging behavior.
  • Published in:Ecology and Evolution,
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: 10.1002/ece3.70032
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