Moisture Analysis
The average moisture content of Bobby´s faecal samples was 61,2%, ranging from just above 35% to nearly 75%, with the majority of his samples having a moisture content between 60% and 65%. For Elza, the average moisture content was 47.4%, ranging from 35% to over 60%, with the majority of her samples having a moisture content of 50%. For Simba, the average moisture content was 57.4%, ranging from just above 40% to between 70% and 75%, with the majority of his samples having a moisture content of 57%. For Tsezar, the average moisture content was 55.9%, ranging from just above 30% to 80%, with the majority of his samples having a moisture content of 55%
Intra- and inter-observer reliability
The ICC (interclass correlation coefficient) revealed highly significant results (P<0.01) but with values within the poor reliability threshold (ICC<0.5). The ICC was first calculated with all five observers, and then some observers were removed each round to see if the ICC improved. Therefore, there was no agreement between the observers.
A significant positive correlation was found between in-person scoring and photo scoring. Showing high intra-observer reliability.
Correlation between visual scores and moisture analysis results
A significant positive correlation was found between in-person scoring and moisture content. However, no significant correlation was found between the observer scores from photos and the moisture analysis.
Correlations between moisture analysis results and behavioural data
No significant correlation was found between moisture analysis and behaviours for Bobby, Simba and Tsezar.
A significant positive correlation was found for Elza between moisture content and moving, stationary and watching behaviour.
A significant negative correlation was found for Elza between moisture content and pacing behaviour.
