Color Marker Tracking: Tracks only the colored marker (no nose/tail tracking). Suitable for all species.
Marker-Assisted Tracking: Uses both contrast-based body tracking and the color marker for identification. Recommended for social interaction tests where body points are needed.
Lighting Conditions
Brightness: Ensure sufficient illumination; dim lighting reduces color contrast.
Uniformity: Use diffuse lighting to minimize shadows and preserve color fidelity.
Color Temperature: Use daylight-spectrum lamps for optimal hue separation.
General Marker Tips
Choose highly distinct hues (e.g., red vs. green; avoid red vs. orange).
Avoid red if possible—it resembles blood.
Set a minimum marker size to ignore false detections from similar colors in the arena.
Apply markers in advance to reduce animal stress during testing.
Use fluorescent markers with UV lighting in dark conditions (for marker-only tracking).
Place markers on the center of the back—not on the head or tail—to maintain visibility.
Ensure the marker is round and uniform to reduce detection error.
Do not oversize the marker, especially on small or light-colored animals.
Species-Specific Marking
Small Mammals & Birds
Chalk/Terracotta markers: Non-toxic and opaque; effective on dark fur.
Livestock markers: Paint sticks and sprays available in fluorescent colors.
Hair dye: Long-lasting; bleach dark fur if needed.
Permanent markers: Temporary and easy but can be removed by grooming.
Colored jackets: Cloth with Velcro; useful for small mammals with colored fur.