Continuous-time correlated random walk model for animal telemetry data

Ecology. 2008 May;89(5):1208-15. doi: 10.1890/07-1032.1.

Abstract

We propose a continuous-time version of the correlated random walk model for animal telemetry data. The continuous-time formulation allows data that have been nonuniformly collected over time to be modeled without subsampling, interpolation, or aggregation to obtain a set of locations uniformly spaced in time. The model is derived from a continuous-time Ornstein-Uhlenbeck velocity process that is integrated to form a location process. The continuous-time model was placed into a state-space framework to allow parameter estimation and location predictions from observed animal locations. Two previously unpublished marine mammal telemetry data sets were analyzed to illustrate use of the model, by-products available from the analysis, and different modifications which are possible. A harbor seal data set was analyzed with a model that incorporates the proportion of each hour spent on land. Also, a northern fur seal pup data set was analyzed with a random drift component to account for directed travel and ocean currents.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology*
  • Ecosystem
  • Fur Seals / physiology
  • Models, Biological*
  • Phoca / physiology
  • Telemetry / veterinary*
  • Time Factors