Chapter 15 Animal Behavior and Reproduction 15 A

Chapter 15: Animal Behavior and Reproduction

15 A: Animal Behaviour

Introduction Have you ever wondered how and why animals behave the way they do? There are 3 levels of behavior that all animals demonstrate: Innate behavior Learned behavior Intelligent behavior

1. Innate Behavior Actions and reactions that the animal is given by God when it is born They are not learned Innate behavior is sub grouped into 2 other catgories: Reflexes Instincts

Innate Behavior: REFLEXES These are immediate and involuntary responses to a change in the environment for the animal Some examples for a dog: Panting as a reflex to heat Blinking when there is a flash of light Jump when there is a sudden noise or surprise Examples for humans: Jerk our hands away when touching something hot Squint our eyes when there is bright light

Innate Behavior: INSTINCTS These are complex reactions that require long periods of time to complete Examples: Birds building nests Spiders Caring weaving webs for young (mammals) Hoarding food (squirrels and ants) Some very important ones are: Mating Rituals Migration

Instincts: Mating Rituals Instinctive sequence of actions exhibited by some animals while selecting a mate Examples of mating rituals include: Display of body parts Making certain sounds Taking on a certain pose Making certain things in the environment

Instincts: Migration Long-distance seasonal movement of animals from one area to another Usually happens when the temperature changes or the food that they eat becomes limited/ runs out

2. Learned Behavior These are actions and reactions that have been developed from observation and training They learn these from lessons themselves or from other animals Examples: A dog that “shakes hands” A parrot that talks

3. Intelligent Behavior Animals all have different levels of intelligence. Level of intelligence is based on: Reasoning Analyzing Understanding Examples of intelligent behavior: Communication Chimpanzees dolphins using different pitched whistles use large rocks to crack nuts

Definitions and Concepts: Innate Behavior Reflexes Instincts Mating Rituals Migration Learned Behavior Intelligent Behavior

Homework: Section ALL 15 A Review: questions EXCEPT Q 5.