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Journal Article

Differential Responses by Urban Brown Rats (Rattus norvegicus) Toward Male or Female-produced Scents in Sheltered and High-risk Presentations

Parsons, M.H., et al. 2019

Journal of Urban Ecology

Summary

This field study used scent-baited RFID antennas to measure how marked urban brown rats responded to male and female rat odors in sheltered and predator-exposed locations. Male scent prompted brief inspection regardless of risk, whereas female scent caused much stronger and longer-lasting attraction that was greatest near shelter, separating odor valence from perceived danger. UID RFID microchips connected more than forty days of visits to individual rats.

Summary written by UID from the published work. Read the original publication for the authors' abstract and full methods.

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