We show how to use logistic regression in situations where the phenomenon u
nder consideration is periodic, i.e., follows a cyclic pattern. The method
is illustrated by using data for the snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum, which
exhibits a 24-hr periodic pattern of foraging. Snails are found on the top
or bottom of rocks, depending on time of day. We show how periodic logistic
regression models can be fitted simultaneously to several groups of data,
taking into account that the groups may exhibit similar (but not identical)
cyclic patterns. The proposed procedure is applicable to ecological studie
s that analyze the variability in a dichotomous response variable exhibitin
g a cyclic pattern over time.