Computer-simulations of Rodent Homing Behavior, Using a Probabilistic Model

The recapture patterns observed in a homing experiment with wild mice of the genus Apodemus could be simulated using a probabilistic model that includes a strategy of repeated searches around the release site, and two discrete motivational stages, but no specific directionality ("orientation") toward the home-target. As an average, however, model-mice traveled overall distances that were one order of magnitude larger than bee-line distances from release site to place of recapture. Whether real mice travel such distances while homing should be tested in the field to validate or invalidate the model.