8.1: Learned Behaviours

Question 1

What is the definition of learning?

Answer 1

• The modification of behavior, based on specific experiences

Question 2

What is imprinting?

Answer 2

• A long-lasting behavioral response to an Individual

Question 3

When does imprinting occur? (2)

Answer 3

• A sensitive period of development, usually very early in life
• imprinting occurs on the first individual they encounter
  Ex. Ducks following their mother

Question 4

What is spatial learning?

Answer 4

• establishing memories based upon the spatial structure of the animal’s surrounding
  Ex. You know where everything in your room is, even in the dark

Question 5

What does some animals use in spatial learning?

Answer 5

• some animals form a cognitive map, or use landmarks as environmental cues
  Ex. Birds finding their hidden nests

Question 6

What is associative learning?

Answer 6

• The ability to associate one environmental feature with another.
  Ex. Associating monarch butterflies with a foul taste

Question 7

What is social learning?

Answer 7

• learning through observations and imitations of the observed behaviors
  Ex, chimps breaking open oil palm nuts

Question 8

Practice: what are possible proximal and ultimate causes for imprinting in ducklings?

Answer 8

Proximal - ducklings observe their mother moving away from them and calling, so they follow

Ultimate - ducklings that imprint receive more care and protection from their mothers, and have a greater chance of surviving than those ducklings that do not imprint