The AvaSpec 2048, fitted with a 2048 pixel CCD array, was chosen by seabird
behavioural scientist for bird research on New Island on the Falklands. The
AvaSpec, enabled a portable setup which was needed to take directly to the
seabird colonies, working from a small 12V battery and laptop computer. The
data-sampling allowed fast read-out and storage of the data.
An indicator to determine the maturity level of birds, in this instance ‘Thin-Billed
Prions’, is their feather color and ornamental appearance. Because of their ability
to see UV and produce signals in this range (plumage color, bill displays),
spectrometry needs to be used to objectively assess skin and feather colors.
Besides of the spectrometer use to measure colors as indicators for individual
quality, the scientists are also interested to determine the origins of signaling
with ornaments, hormonal control and trade-offs between signal production
and e.g. reproduction, or the maintenance of a strong immune system.
