Deconstructing Boldness: Latent behavioural structure across novelty, predation, and exploration in an endangered species translocation program

In a captive population of the endangered Attwaters prairie chicken (Tympanuchus cupido attwateri), risk-related behaviours do not align along a single boldness axis; three dimensions emerged.

• Why it matters: Assumptions that neophobia, exploration, and predator avoidance covary on one boldness continuum may mislead predictions of fitness and post-release success in translocation programs.
• What they did: The study measured repeatable behaviours in 257 juveniles and compared 11 models of behavioural covariation using multivariate mixed models and confirmatory factor analysis.
• The result: The best-supported structure split behaviours into Engagement, Threat Response, and Maze Progression, implying managers should characterize captive behavioural architecture rather than assume a classical bold–shy syndrome.

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