Larks and Owls Larks and Owls A n individuals tolerance towards shiftwork has been found to be related to his Chronotype , which is the scientific name given to his particular circadian rhythm pattern. To them, midnight is the middle of the night.
Larks cope more easily with Early shifts.
Owls cope more easily with Late shifts. If you have any doubts, then you can take the Morningness-Eveningness Test which is attached to this page. Studies show that in the short term Larks have greater difficulty coping with nightshift than Owls, as their natural tendency to wake early reduces their day time sleep after a nightshift. If you identify yourself as a Lark then 'napping' in the evening is one strategy to help boost mental alertness on nightshift, although it doesn't replace quality sleep time.