The comparison of usage and availability measurements for evaluating resource preference (PREFER)

The method is based on ranks of the components by availability and by use. Accordingly, a virtue of the method is that it provides comparable results whether a questionable component is included or excluded from consideration.

Other methods of determining resource preference depend critically on the array of components that the researcher deems available to the animal; such decisions are often arbitrary. PREFER tests the hypothesis that all components are equally preferred and compares components using a multiple comparison procedure. The purpose of PREFER is to determine the preference of individuals for certain habitat types or kinds of foods.