Gwybodaeth Modiwlau

The module introduces the basic principles of animal behaviour (ethology), by considering Tinbergen's four questions. The importance of adopting an objective approach to the description and interpretation of behaviour is emphasised.

The module discusses the basic principles of ethology under four headings: causation of behaviour, development (ontogeny) of behaviour, evolution of behaviour and function of behaviour, i.e. Tinbergen's four questions: what causes behaviour, how does it develop during ontogeny, how did itevolve and what is its function (adaptive significance). Topics covered include stimulus filtering, "releasers", species typical behaviour ("fixed action patterns"), models of motivation, effect of hormones on behaviour, genotypic influences on behaviour, learning, ritualization, phylogeny of behaviour, the use of game theory and cost-benefit analysis in behavioural ecology. Methods of describing behaviour are also discussed. In the discussion of the function of behaviour, more emphasis is placed on methods of modeling behaviour. Topics are drawn from habitat selection, ideal free distribution, foraging and the use of optimal foraging models, social behaviour, territoriality, mating and parental behaviour. The relevant text is Krebs & Davies (1993).