Linking individual-based and statistical inferential models in movement ecology: A case study with black petrels (Procellaria parkinsoni)

•We developed an analytical framework for individual-based model (IBM) design.•We applied our approach to an IBM representing black petrel foraging patterns.•Inferential movement models (IMMs) summarised patterns of the movement behaviour.•The results of the IMM form rejection criteria in an approximate Bayesian computation (ABC).•ABC was used to select between alternate model parameterisations and structures.