Bridging the gap between lab and field sleep studies: a proof-of-concept for studying wild rats in semi-captive environments.

ABSTRACT: Sleep is a vital and universal behavior distinct from mere inactivity, yet its ecological role remains poorly understood due to methodological limitations in recording sleep in the wild. Using a small, low-power biologger, collecting brain activity, body movements, and physiology, we recorded key sleep parameters in wild black rats (Rattus rattus) under semi-captive conditions. We developed a rapid (<1 h) surgical procedure using a custom subdermal flexible electrode, providing signal quality comparable to standard cortical electrodes. Our validated semi-captive setup allowed animals to remain in their natural environment with ad libitum food and social contact while minimizing interactions. This protocol enables the study of sleep's ecological role and the influence of environmenta

SUBMITTER: Libourel PA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12241855 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature