Out of nest

Definition

A discrete (state event) variable that is scored when the focal subject is away from the remaining subjects, which form a nest.

Calculation

EthoVision XT finds all the instances of Nest 3, that is, when three subjects are in contact and do not move (see Nest). The state event Out of nest is scored for the remaining subject and lasts as long as the Nest 3 lasts.

How to specify Out of nest

1.Open an Analysis profile and in the Dependent Variables panel, under Live Mouse Tracker, click the Add button next to Out of nest.

2.Complete the procedure to add the variable to the Analysis profile. See Calculate statistics: procedure

Example

In the following figure, subject B is far from the remaining subjects B, C and D, which huddle together forming a nest.

The state event Out of nest has been scored for subject A and lasts until one of the subjects B, C, and D leaves the nest, or when A joins the others to form a nest of size 4.