Study Notes on Animal Behaviour Module

  • Overview of animal behaviour, emphasizing its significance in conservation and welfare, and linking genetics and environment to behaviour.

  • Focus on diverse animal behaviours, particularly among large species such as elephants and rhinos.

Module Overview

  • The Animal Behaviour Module addresses various animal behaviours, encouraging individual research.

  • Assessments: Includes a closed book assessment and two reports based on distinct learning outcomes, with schedules provided on Teams.

Teaching Methodology

  • Group work conducted in sessions; lectures recorded for absentees; teaching plans available on Canvas.

Class Engagement

  • Discussions based on students' animal experiences, with personal anecdotes shared by Kirsty about her dairy farm and pets.

Lesson 1: Life Stages and Behaviour

  1. Developmental Life Stages

    • Three main stages: neonatal, juvenile, and adult; predominantly focusing on puppies.

  2. Neonatal Stage of Puppies

    • Definition: Refers to the initial development phase post-birth, during which nervous systems are developing with innate reflexes.

  3. Primary Reflexes in Neonates

    • Burrowing Reflex: Search for warmth, critical to prevent hypothermia.

    • Suckling Reflex: Instinctual feeding from the mother, with colostrum being vital for health.

    • Perineal Reflex: Maternal stimulation leads to urination/defecation; absence can cause health issues.

  4. Lifespan and Growth

    • By day 5, puppies begin to recognize teats and compete for nutrition, showcasing variances among breeds and survival dynamics.

  5. Responses to Environment

    • Socialization: Key in early stages to develop interactions; sensory development progresses with age.

  6. Primary Reflexes Transition

    • By 20 days, reflexes lessen as puppies gain independence and self-regulate temperature.

The Importance of Socialization

  • Early socialization is critical; engagement in diverse activities promotes positive behaviours.

Nature vs Nurture in Behaviour

  1. Definitions

    • Nature: Innate behaviours dictated by genetics.

    • Nurture: Behaviours shaped through experiences; ongoing debate on the influence of each factor.

  2. Genetic and Environmental Influences

    • Behaviours are influenced by genetic predispositions combined with positive environmental stimuli.

  3. Genotype vs. Phenotype

    • Genotype: Genetic blueprint; Phenotype: Observable traits affected by environment, showing variation in behaviours.

Selective Breeding and its Impact on Behaviour

  • Examines how selective breeding alters behaviour for traits beneficial to specific roles in animals (e.g., guide dogs).

Case Studies and Real-World Applications

  • Discusses real-world impacts of breeding and environment on behaviours, including PTSD in service animals.