residual body condition index (Sciuridae)

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Method synopsis

Linear mixed effect models to estimate individual body mass at key seasonal transition points, accounting for day-of-year effects and random variation among years, sites, and individuals. Provides standardized mass estimates for demographic modeling.

Synthesized from method descriptions across 8 papers using this protocol.

Procedure as described in the canonical source

Steps below were extracted from the paper that introduces this protocol — Causes and consequences of pre-hibernation body mass in golden-mantled ground squirrels (Callospermophilus lateralis) (2022). Implementations in other papers (listed below) may differ.

1. Pre-hibernation mass standardization
   Used mass data obtained after 31 July to estimate pre-hibernation masses. For females with ≥2 post-July masses separated by ≥5 days, calculated late-season mass gain per day by dividing difference between first and last masses by elapsed time. Standardized pre-hibernation mass to 15 August for yearlings and adults (daily gain 2.2-2.9 g/day) and to 25 August for juveniles (daily gain 2.3 g/day) to account for later hibernation of juveniles.
   Quantities: Minimum 2 mass measurements ≥5 days apart after 31 July, standardized to specific dates: 15 August (yearlings/adults) or 25 August (juveniles)Duration: Mass measurements from 31 July through hibernation onsetConditions: Late summer pre-hibernation period
   Equipment: scale accurate to 1 g, calculation tools

Typical Equipment

• scales
• linear mixed effect models for estimation

Output Measurements

• seasonal body mass estimates
• mass change rates

Papers Using This Protocol (8)

Species Studied With This Protocol