The Effect of the Lunar Cycle on Nocturnal Behaviour in Captive Cape Porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis).

Abstract

This study determined if a relationship between observed behaviours and lunar phases was present in captive Cape Porcupines (Hystrix africaeaustralis), a nocturnal species found in UK collections. Previous research on wild populations of hystrix species found that the amount of moonlight a lunar phase presents can limit activity levels. Field studies found that the correlation can be an evolved predatory avoidance tactic in response to moonlight exposure. A captive study aids in comprehending diel cycles and the factors which influence them, as behaviours are not limited to high moonlight phases. Between November 2022 and March 2023, recordings of nocturnal behaviours on dates surrounding distinct lunar phases took place at Reaseheath Mini Zoo. An ethogram based on previous behaviour studies identified behaviours. Data was then analysed using General Linear Regression (GLR). The study aimed to discover if a higher frequency of behaviours would correlate with lunar phases displaying higher levels of moonlight. Although GLMs proved insignificant, the data showed the rate of maintenance and resting behaviours increased during full moons, behaviours associated with predatory avoidance. Findings can provide information on lunar-behaviour relationships in captivity to benefit species-specific care and animal welfare by facilitating environmental challenge, competency and agency or alleviating moonlight-induced stressors to benefit affective welfare states.