High-resolution ethograms, accelerometer recordings, and behavioral time series of Japanese quail

Abstract

Although many small vertebrates are capable of performing high-speed behaviors, most studies continue to focus on low-resolution temporal scales (>>1 s). Herein, we present video-recordings, behavior time series, and the computer software for video-analysis of Japanese quail within social groups. Home-boxes were monitored using both top and side video-cameras. High-resolution ethograms were developed for analyses. Pairs of females were assigned as either controls or using one of two methods for attachment of an accelerometer (patch or backpack). Behavior was recorded during 1 h on the first 2-days, sampled at 1 s intervals (days 1 and 2). On day 8, an unfamiliar male was placed in the home-box and its behavior was recorded during the first 10 min, sampled every 1/15 s. Male accelerometer recordings were also obtained. Video-recordings and resulting detailed high-resolution behavioral time series are valuable for reuse in comparative studies regarding the temporal dynamics of behavior within social environments. In addition, they are necessary for the assessment of novel machine learning algorithms that could be used for deciphering the output of accelerometer recordings.