behavior introduction Flashcards
5 reasons to study animal behavior
- determine illness
- to recognize signs of the animal’s temperament
- to know what is normal and help advise clients
- behavior problems may lead to medical problems
- to understand stereotypes
ethology
the study of animal behavior
what 2 factors determine an animal’s behavior
- genetics
- the environment in which they were raised
what are the 2 characteristics of genetically determined behavior
- inheritable
- innate behavior
what are 2 environmental factors
inanimate factors
animate factors (same species)
reflex
an involuntary immediate response to a stimulus
spinal reflex
bypasses the brain entirely; may even be present under anesthesia
general reflex
complicated behaviour; some common to all mammalian species
species-specific reflex
not presented the same in all species
mental reflex
present in all animals; determines temperament, intelligence, excitability, activity levels etc…
motor program
inherited sequence of events that combines several different reflexes; modified by learning
can be altered by life experiences
once a motor program is learned it will be ____________
repeated whenever the environmental stimulus is present
social behaviour
behavior that occurs when an animal interacts with other animals
what are the types of asocial structures
- monogamous pairs
- solitary arrangement
what are the types of social structures
- harems
- compound social structures
what are 4 functions of having ranks and social orders
- allows for peaceful coexistence
- assure optimal arrangements
- provide territory protection
- makes it possible for the group to obtain food
what factors help establish rank
age
size
temperament
sex and reproductive status
interactions with resources
predation
