Behayve 4.4.3

Developed by researchers for research professionals and their teams, Behayve offers comprehensive capabilities for behavioral data collection and environmental monitoring. It visualizes real-time tracks and behavior locations through dynamic maps, providing immediate insights during field observations. The application has been utilized in over 1,400 studies, notably including research on endangered species. It is available as a free app with optional in-app purchases.

Behayve maintains accurate positioning without relying solely on internet or GPS signals by employing compass bearing and range measurements, which complement GPS or grid mapping systems to determine animal positions non-invasively and in real-time.

CONFIGURABLE

The platform supports various ecological studies across terrestrial, marine, and avian environments. Users can customize ethograms, behavior groupings, roles, modifiers, data parameters, and species profiles to suit specific research needs.

SAMPLING MODES

Researchers can select from focal, scan, behavior, or ad-lib sampling methodologies—either individually or concurrently—based on Jeanne Altmann’s 'Observational Study of Behavior' framework.

ROLES AND MODIFIERS

The system allows configuration of multiple roles and modifiers for each behavior. Behaviors may be recorded as instantaneous events or as ongoing states, with mutually exclusive states selectable within the interface.

CUSTOM DATA

Users have the option to define bespoke data fields to capture additional observational details relevant to their studies.

INSIGHT

While conducting observations, users can access visual terrain maps displaying all recorded behaviors and tracks up to that point. Observations are interactive; tapping on them reveals detailed timestamped data. A predictive tool assists in locating individuals that may have moved out of sight.

REVIEW AND CORRECTION

The app enables rapid review and editing of recorded data at any phase—during or after observations—including voice notes and comments. Geospatial information such as latitude and longitude is automatically adjusted during modifications.

COLLABORATION, STUDENTS AND CITIZEN SCIENCE

Behayve promotes data sharing among team members—colleagues, students, or citizen scientists—and supports merging datasets gathered at varying locations. Configurations can be secured to prevent unauthorized edits.

GIS INTEGRATION

The software facilitates seamless transfer of observational data into GIS platforms like ArcGIS, QGIS, or KML-compatible systems such as Google Earth—preserving data structure and enabling 2D or 3D visualization of tracks and behaviors. Observations can be examined via clickable points for detailed information; spreadsheet exports are also supported.

Photo icons can be automatically geotagged at the precise location where images were taken—regardless of camera GPS functionality.

RELIABILITY

Data integrity is ensured through a robust onboard database resilient to power failures. Structured data can be exported securely to cloud storage or local devices, with comprehensive backup options available.

CODING CONVENIENCE

Behayve boasts an intuitive interface optimized for field use. Automated features simplify data collection; for instance, recording compass bearings and elevation angles involves simply aligning an animal in the crosshairs. Range measurements are straightforward via wireless devices or manual entry.

AERIAL SURVEY OR THEODOLITE

The application accommodates terrestrial, marine, or aerial observation modes—including Roving 2D and 3D setups, theodolite configurations, and aerial surveys. Positioning an animal within the crosshairs records its latitude and longitude automatically; bearing and azimuth data can also be entered manually.

GNSS AND DIFFERENTIAL GPS

Wireless-connected GNSS units such as the Arrow 100 provide sub-meter positional accuracy with automatic sensing by Behayve. The app also utilizes the iPhone’s built-in GPS hardware. Under canopy conditions, combining multiple satellite constellations (GPS, Glonass, Galileo, Beidou) enhances precision.

GEAR INTEGRATION

At sea or in field environments, water temperature and depth can be continuously logged wirelessly from compatible chartplotters or custom devices—collaborations for wireless device integration are welcome.

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