Animal Learning & Behavior

Scientists looking into animal behavior are finding that many animals have a higher intelligence and capacity to learn than expected. At the University of Arizona, an African Grey parrot named Alex was studied by researcher Dr. Irene Pepperberg. After 20 years, Alex can name scores of objects and understand key concepts, such as same/different and size. The study of animal learning and behavior is ongoing, and we can expect more surprises as research continues.

  1. Animal Behavior

    • According to animal behavior experts at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens in Florida, animals act the way they do for clear reasons: to reproduce, search for food, interact with their social group, and steer clear of predators. These behaviors help the animal to survive. The physical abilities of the animal determine which behaviors are possible. Many animal behaviors come naturally, and others are learned.

    Animal Intelligence

    • Ongoing research shows that animals may be far more intelligent than previously believed. It is now common knowledge that some monkeys use tools to find food, and that whales communicate through songs. Studies at Emory University discovered that capuchin monkeys have the ability to understand concepts that were previously attributed exclusively to humans, like fairness and sharing.

    Learning Through Observation

    • One way that animals learn and change their behavior is by observing other animals and mimicking their behavior. Whale calves at SeaWorld learn tricks and routines for shows by imitating their mothers. Similarly, chimpanzees at Busch Gardens learn to forage by watching mature, experienced members of the group. Trainers find that when adult animals train with skilled animals, they learn faster.

    Learning Through Conditioning

    • Behaviorist and Nobel Prize winner Ivan Pavlov developed the theory of conditioning in which automatic behavior is manipulated. In his famous experiment, he showed that dogs salivate when they were given food. If the sound of a buzzer accompanied the food, eventually dogs salivated when the buzzer rang, even if food was not offered. This is termed a conditioned reflex.

    Learning Through Positive Reinforcement

    • Positive reinforcement is a major technique used in dog training. With this teaching strategy, dogs are given rewards, usually a small piece of food or a treat, immediately after performing a task correctly. Many trainers accompany the treat with verbal praise. Using positive reinforcement, a dog can learn to respond to commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. The dog's behavior is "shaped" or changed gradually.