Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://biore.bio.bg.ac.rs/handle/123456789/2119
Title: Moving in the real world: Tortoises take the plunge to cross steep steps
Authors: Golubović, Ana 
Arsovski, Dragan
Ajtić, Rastko
Tomović, Ljiljana 
Bonnet, Xavier
Keywords: Behaviour;Jumping;Locomotor performance;Ontogenetic shift;Testudo hermanni
Issue Date: 1-Apr-2013
Project: Diversity of the amphibians and reptiles on the Balkan Peninsula: evolutionary and conservation aspects 
Journal: Biological Journal of the Linnean Society
Abstract: 
Despite exhibiting low velocity and limited agility, many tortoises undertake large scale movements and must overcome various obstacles, notably in populations living in hilly or rocky habitats. Although crucial, studies exploring how tortoises move in complex and irregular environments are scarce. In this context, we examined an important behavioural trait: how tortoises (Testudo hermanni) deal with step-like obstacles. In their natural habitat, individuals were positioned in a challenging situation: they were placed on a bench approximately 50cm high, and were observed over a 10-min period. We compared the behaviour of the tortoises (taking a risk to 'jump' or waiting) from two populations living in contrasted habitats: flat versus rugged (crisscrossed by cliffs and rocky steps). Individuals from the flat habitat were reluctant to jump, whereas most tortoises from the rugged habitat jumped. Immature tortoises were less willing to jump compared to larger and more experienced adults. These results suggest that challenging habitats increase boldness. In addition to fundamental findings, these results may have conservation value and assist in improving translocation strategies for endangered tortoise populations. © 2013 The Linnean Society of London.
URI: https://biore.bio.bg.ac.rs/handle/123456789/2119
ISSN: 0024-4066
DOI: 10.1111/bij.12000
Appears in Collections:Journal Article

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