We review the use of clay models to explore questions about predation rates on small
vertebrate taxa that are typically difficult to observe directly. The use of models has a …

Background Ecological research often involves sampling and manipulating non-model
organisms that reside in heterogeneous environments. As such, ecologists often adapt …

The variation in substrate structure is one of the most important determinants of the
locomotor abilities of lizards. Lizards are found across a range of habitats, from large rocks …

Ectotherm antipredator behaviour might be strongly affected both by body temperature and
size: when environmental temperatures do not favour maximal locomotor performance, large …

A potential prey item's response to encountering a predator depends on aspects of the
predator (eg, its locomotor capacity), the local environment (eg, proximity to shelter) and the …

Ecomorphological studies often seek to link morphology and performance to relevant
ecological characteristics. Varanid lizards are unique in that species can vary in body size …

Interspecific variation in animal form, function and behaviour is often associated with habitat
use, implying co-adaptation. Numerous studies of the 'ecomorphs' of Greater Antillean …

Adaptations promoting greater performance in one habitat are thought to reduce
performance in others. However, there are many examples of animals in which, despite …

Locomotion is relevant to the ecology of reptiles because of its presumed influence on an
organism's Darwinian fitness. Moreover, in ectothermic species, physiological performance …

Sex differences in personality traits, such as boldness, are often driven by differences in life
history strategies. Specifically, in a polygynous mating system where males defend …