MASTERS

Colour vision and vigilance behaviour 

In this project, we investigated how wildlife is affected by tourism. In particular, we wanted to test whether the colour of clothing worn by tourists influences wildlife behaviour. To address this question, we examined the vigilance and escape behaviour of chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) responses to human presence in the Swiss Alps. By exposing the chamois to humans wearing different coloured rain jackets, we were able to characterise behavioural responses to a range of colours. Our findings revealed that although chamois possess colour vision, reactions did not differ between conspicuous and camouflaged colours. Clothing colour did not affect chamois behaviour.

Collaborators

Paul Ingold, University of Bern