Camera traps elicit behavioral responses from wild Philippine tarsiers (Carlito syrichta) on Leyte Island.

Abstract

Camera traps are powerful tools that facilitate ecological monitoring and behavioral observations of non-human primates. Although supposedly non-intrusive, some models generate sound and illumination that elicit behavioral responses from different species. Reactions of primates to camera traps are poorly documented, including those of tarsiers, despite their distinctive auditory and visual specializations. Here, we described the reactions of wild Philippine tarsiers (Carlito syrichta) to camera traps based on existing video records on Leyte Island (N = 12) and characterized the light and sound emissions of the camera traps used for recording. We observed avoidance, attraction, and inspection behaviors from the tarsiers after their looking impulses. Using a spectrometer and ultrasonic acoustic analysis, we found that the camera traps emitted light at predominantly infrared wavelengths with peaks at ca. 850 nm (low glow) and ca. 930 nm (no glow). Some low-glow models produced a faint red glow during recording and a detectable clicking sound upon trigger, whereas the no-glow camera traps emitted infrared light with significant ultraviolet components. Based on spectral sensitivity approximations and audible threshold assessments, we found that the emissions of the camera traps are detectable, not only to tarsiers but also other primate species. Our findings suggest that camera traps influence the behavior of tarsiers. Hence, we advise caution when using camera traps since behavioral reactions may induce bias depending on the framing of studies. We also recommend proper planning when accounting for these behaviors, selecting camera trap models, and designing camera trapping studies.