Nemo, Dorothy, Mia, Zsu-Zsu, and Elsa Urian-Read

We are primarily interested in pattern recognition, using natural markings of other vertebrate species. Frankly, we are interested in exploring the radical hypothesis that hominids can be identified by their facial features. We have spent years training two captive hominids who we can tell apart in approximately 99% of encounters. One of the hominids is sessile, spending most of his time on the couch watching the electronic box, clasping a small plastic object with buttons in one hand and a glass of amber liquid in the other. This hominid is rather unresponsive to our most obvious experimental manipulations and sleeps frequently. In contrast, the female is well trained and responds appropriately to even subtle cues. She has been trained to clean our litter box, provide food ad libitum and open doors at all times of the night. It is possible, and perhaps likely, that significant gender differences exist in the abilities and training potential of the species.

• Gender-based response to crepuscular vocal and tactile stimulation in hominids. 2001. Annals of Feline Dominance 6: 23-56.
• Maximum projectile velocity of hairballs; the influence of company, rug value and liquid content. 2000. New England Journal of Veterinary Physics 234: 11-14.
• Odor and visual cues to determining the location of prey remains: optimal placement of dead mice and Anolis lizards. Feline Forensic Medicine 32: 113-134.
  

Annabelle, Dora, Babydoll, and Jack

Our favorite part about living in Beaufort is the huge number of birds we get to watch fly by. Of course, we would rather be outside actually playing with them, but the humans won't allow it. We spend most of our days taking awsomely-long naps in random places-- the couch and the dining room chairs are the most comfortable spots. Dora loves to eat and cuddle. Annabelle likes to play with her favorite toy. Baby and Jack love to chase each other all around the house and find ways to get into trouble. One thing we all love is getting into cupboards and rooms that we're not allowed in. But we can always get out of trouble by being cute and purring real loud. :)

Cody