Motion vision is crucial in the life of animals, in controlling locomotion, in foraging, for predator evasion and incommunication. However, information on the conditions for motion vision in natural environments is limited. To address this, we are developing an innovative approach that uses 3D animation to determine how habitat structure, weather and motion vision influence animal behaviour. Our project focuses on Australia’s charismatic dragon lizards, and will place their motion displays in a visual-ecological context. This project will link motion graphic technologies and the biological sciences and thus demonstrate the researchapplicability of 3D animation as a laboratory tool. Virtual environment reconstruction encourages a fresh look at the physical world here and now and will quantify the important relationship between animal behaviour and environmental characteristics.
