Zoology Animal Behavior

# Zoology Animal Behavior

## 1. Foundations of Ethology
Behavior is the internally coordinated response of whole living organisms to internal and external stimuli. 
- **Proximate Causation (HWS):** Focuses on the 'how'—mechanisms, genetics, and neural pathways (CNS) triggering behavior.
- **Ultimate Causation (HWS):** Focuses on the 'why'—evolutionary pressures and fitness advantages.

## 2. Innate vs. Learned Behavior
- **FAP (Fixed Action Pattern):** A sequence of unlearned, innate behaviors that is unchangeable and, once initiated, usually carried to completion. Triggered by a sign stimulus.
- **Imprinting:** Learning limited to a critical period in life, resulting in irreversible behavior (e.g., filial imprinting in nidifugous birds).
- **Associative Learning:** Classical (Pavlovian) vs. Operant (Skinnerian) conditioning.

## 3. Behavioral Ecology
- **OPT (Optimal Foraging Theory):** Animals forage in a way that maximizes their energy intake per unit of time, balancing energy gain against predation risk and handling time.
- **Mating Systems:** Polygyny, polyandry, and monogamy, dictated by resource distribution and parental investment.

## 4. Sociality and Altruism
- **KIN (Kin Selection):** Hamilton's Rule (rB > C) explains the evolution of altruism. Individuals increase their inclusive fitness by helping relatives survive and reproduce.
- **Reciprocal Altruism:** Altruism among non-kin, contingent on the expectation of future reciprocity.

## 5. Communication and Orientation
- **Signals:** Visual, auditory, chemical (pheromones), and tactile. 
- **Navigation:** Kinesis (change in speed), taxis (directional movement), and migration via celestial cues or geomagnetic fields.

## 6. Neuroethology
- Understanding the CNS integration of sensory input. How specific neural circuits control complex behavioral outputs, from circadian rhythms to escape responses.