Pumas make roads safer for drivers
A study found that pumas change deer behavior, reducing the likelihood of deer-vehicle collisions by 67%. Deer alter their use of space and time where pumas are present, overlapping less with roads.
Behavioral Ecology
Articles tagged with Behavioral Ecology
Well-worn wins: Wild capuchin monkeys prefer stones with a proven track record of cracking nuts
In a new study, researchers found that wild capuchin monkeys prioritize stones with proven track records of cracking nuts, even if they're not the mechanically optimal choice. This demonstrates that primates rely on durable physical traces to guide their tool selection.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateAug 5, 2026
The world’s most powerful clickbait?
Researchers found that male sperm whales emit slow, low-frequency clicks with extremely high source levels, which can be heard up to 70 kilometers away. These clicks are not used for echolocation but may serve as a form of communication or advertisement, potentially linking to honest signals of size.
Queen bee pheromones help daughters decide whether to stay or leave the nest
Researchers found that queen pheromones inhibit daughters' ovarian development during a critical stage of development, while also indicating the queen's reproductive health, leading to more likely retention of helpers. This study provides new insights into how cooperation evolved in insect societies.
Seabirds trade their survival to raise more chicks next year through flexible energy use
A field experiment on wild kittiwakes found that birds with high energy costs during breeding raised more chicks the next year, but at a cost to their own survival. The study reveals how flexible energy use can lead to hidden trade-offs in life-history strategy.
SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2026
Why moths have a preferred side: Smart solutions for small brains
Researchers found that hummingbird hawkmoths prefer one side when extending their proboscis while inspecting flowers. The strength of this preference varies among individuals, but the alignment between the eye and proboscis is maintained even when part of the eye is occluded.
Can leaderless societies get stuff done? Ask the honeybees
A study suggests that decentralized strategies of decision making are at least as good as centrally coordinated ones, especially in situations where a central coordinator's loss leaves the group vulnerable. The model found that leaderless groups can be more resilient by having multiple pathways for communication.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 22, 2026
Bacteria form 'herds' to survive predators, offering fresh insight into Earth's carbon cycle
Researchers discovered that cyanobacteria band together into protective flocs when attacked by predators, a survival strategy that could influence how carbon is stored in the world's waters. This behavior helps explain why cyanobacteria invest energy in forming flocs despite the apparent cost to their growth.
Prey accessibility — not abundance — may shape predator behavior in penguins
A new study of penguins and krill found that repeated predator disturbance can alter prey behavior, leading to functional prey depletion. Penguins had to dive deeper and travel farther to encounter prey, but feeding rates remained unchanged once prey were encountered.
SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 14, 2026
Climate change is forcing amphibians to change their diet – but they can only adapt so far
New research shows that tadpoles adapt their diet in response to rising temperatures, consuming more plant material and eating overall. However, this natural strategy becomes less effective as temperatures continue to rise, with consequences for growth, development, and survival.
35 Years of Florida Scrub-Jay research reveals benefits of long-term pair bonds
A new study found that longer pair bonds in Florida Scrub-Jays independently increase reproductive success, with experienced birds producing more offspring. The research also showed that younger birds paired with older mates have lower survival odds.
Does a hotter climate lead to more same-sex mounting? Evidence from corpse-eating beetles
Research on burying beetles found that heat stress leads to an increase in same-sex mounting, contradicting initial assumptions. The study suggests a possible trade-off between heat-protection and social communication cuticular hydrocarbons may be involved.
Is climate change affecting interactions between owls and their prey?
A new study assesses how climate change affects predator-prey dynamics in a semi-arid ecosystem. Researchers found that during periods of low precipitation, owls shifted to different prey, increasing dietary overlap variability. Temperature was the strongest driver of these changes.
Drawing the line: Virtual versus physical fences
Researchers at Göttingen University found that virtual fences lead to a more even distribution of animals across the pasture and reduced movement near edges. Virtual fences also elicit similar behavior from cattle as conventional electric fences.
Do animal behavior experiments give us a distorted view of cooperation?
Researchers at Utrecht University discovered that introducing multiple opportunities for cooperation in animals can change social dynamics and partner preferences. This challenges previous studies using single-location setups, suggesting a need to reconsider animal behavior experiments.
SourceUtrecht University, Faculty of Science·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2026
Apes and humans have been sharing a laugh for 15 million years
A study reveals that the rhythmic structure of laughter has remained constant in all living great apes, including humans, for at least 15 million years. This finding offers unexpected clues to the evolution of human speech, suggesting that sophisticated vocal control is a fundamental building block.
Out of darkness, blind Mexican cavefish illuminate brain evolution
Researchers study blind Mexican cavefish to understand how evolution rewires the brain and shapes behavior. They found that cavefish become more active in light, a response believed to help them avoid predators.
Even morphologically similar pollinators carry distinct pollen assemblages
Researchers found that even morphologically similar pollinators can differ markedly in the diversity and heterospecificity of pollen they transport. This variation has important implications for understanding how different pollinators influence plant reproduction and evolution.
Communication cues and signals are key to interspecies cooperation
A new review of interspecies cooperation reveals that animals use cues and signals to work together for mutual benefit. The study found commonalities in these interactions across various species, including fish, dolphins, birds, and butterflies. Researchers highlight the importance of communication in these unique team-based behaviors.
Arabian Sea humpback whale’s long-distance trip further highlights species’ unique ecology
Researchers tracked Arabian Sea humpback whales' movements, revealing the first direct evidence of a whale crossing the Arabian Sea. The study found that these whales have adapted to their habitat in a unique way, deviating from traditional migration patterns.
How animals communicate to work together across species boundaries
A new review highlights how animals exchange information through movements, visual displays, calls, and other cues to coordinate interactions and align interests across species. This cooperation enables individuals to access shared resources and exchange services, such as protection from predators.
SourceUniversity of Cape Town - Faculty of Science·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 19, 2026
Rays employ a chemical cue to warn others of danger, new research finds
Researchers at Oregon State University found that bat rays produce a chemical cue to alert other rays of potential danger. The study used three tanks with individual bat rays and simulated a predator in one tank, causing the other rays to exhibit a flight response.
SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Zoology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2026
Honeybees adjust their dances based on information reliability new study reveals
A new study reveals that honeybees can evaluate the reliability of their communication and adjust their dance vigor accordingly. Bees with verified, honest information increase their recruitment effort over time when advertising a new location, while unverified bees do not.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2026
It takes two to tango: How to perform coordinated pair dances in cranes?
A study analyzing 21 pairs of wild red-crowned cranes found three specific behavioral elements: bill-stab, bow, and arch. The sequence and timing of these elements play a crucial role in pair communication, with males dancing longer than females and females taking the lead in determining dance content.
SourceThe Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateJun 15, 2026
Devoted dads and citizen science: the evolution of parental care in harvestmen is uncovered
Citizen science data from iNaturalist has helped uncover the evolution of parental guarding behavior in harvestmen, doubling the number of documented cases. The study found that paternal care evolved independently, while maternal care followed a pattern seen in insects.
SourceThe Linnean Society of London·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2026
Acoustic environment may explain why some bird songs outlast others
A new study suggests that environmental factors can influence which bird songs are passed down through generations. Common song types, with higher frequencies and broader frequency bandwidths, traveled more effectively through the environment than rare songs. This makes it easier for young birds to hear and learn these songs, potential...
Chasing the ghost dog of the Amazon: New insights into a mythical canid
Researchers used remote sensing technology to capture camera trap images of the short-eared dog, revealing its unique physical profile and activity patterns. The study found that this Amazonian predator is more abundant than previously thought, with a preference for intact forests and protected areas.
Unsuccessful penguins use socially acquired information to decide where to forage
Adélie penguins use social information to acquire knowledge about food sources, often departing with multiple conspecifics to gather this info. This strategy helps unsuccessful foragers adapt their search strategies and increase their chances of finding food.
SourceThe Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI·TypeObservational study·DateJun 9, 2026
Fishing does not attract lesser black-backed gulls out of windfarms
A study by Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research found that Lesser Black-backed Gulls rarely visit wind farms off the Zeeland coast, except for some male birds. Despite being attracted to fishing boats outside the wind farm, the gulls' behavior suggests they avoid entering the wind farm due to unknown reasons.
SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 9, 2026
Research news from the Ecological Society of America’s journals
The Ecological Society of America publishes groundbreaking studies on the rights of nature, highlighting widespread support for conservation. Research also reveals owls' role in controlling rodent populations, while clownfish reveal the importance of partner relationships in shaping biodiversity.
Moms’ learned fear of snakes gets inherited by offspring in a critically endangered mouse
Researchers found that pregnant Pacific pocket mice trained to fear snakes produce more vigilant offspring, which survive better in the wild. This method of antipredator training may improve conservation breeding and reintroduction programs.
Bumble bees show spontaneous problem-solving in study published in Science
Researchers from Finland discover that bumble bees can solve novel problems by combining objects in new ways, similar to the famous 'box-and-banana' experiment with chimpanzees. The bees were not trained and had no prior experience with the solution.
Data on human and wildlife movement during the pandemic suggest new ways for us to coexist
Scientists analyzed GPS tracking data from 37 animal species paired with cellphone location data to reveal how humans impact wildlife. The study found that 57% of species were impacted by human presence and landscape modification, with varied responses between species.
Wildlife is watching us, too — and changing their behavior in response
A new study found that wildlife responds to both direct human presence and landscape changes, such as agriculture and urbanization. The researchers tracked 37 species across the US using GPS devices and mobile phone data, finding that over 65% of species changed their behavior in response to human presence.
Urbanization-related changes in the song of European songbirds
A new study found that urbanization-related changes in the song of European songbirds can have important consequences for birds living in noisy cities. While some species exhibit a broader dominant frequency range in their songs, others do not adapt to urban environments.
SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2026
Intrepid tails – fluke photos confirm humpback whales mount 14,000km open ocean crossing to breeding grounds
Scientists have documented humpback whales travelling over 14,000km between their breeding grounds in eastern Australia and Brazil, setting new records for the greatest distances ever confirmed. The findings highlight the value of citizen science and suggest climate-driven changes may be making such crossings more likely.
The city mouse really is bolder than the country mouse, and so are most animals, according to global study
A global meta-analysis of animal behavior found that urban populations exhibit heightened boldness, aggression, exploration, and activity compared to rural counterparts. The findings highlight the need for urban planners to consider animal behavior in urban development.
SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 19, 2026
Silver vine or catnip? When cats can choose, silver vine wins
A study by Iwate University and Nagoya University found that domestic cats respond more reliably to silver vine than to catnip when given the choice. Cats exhibited rubbing and rolling behavior towards silver vine in both free-choice outdoor experiments and captive laboratory tests, while responding less consistently to catnip.
Parasite emergence facilitated by host wing-raising behavior
Researchers observed a previously unknown strategy used by corioxenid parasites to overcome host-imposed barriers. By raising their host's wings, male parasites were able to emerge and mate. This finding expands our understanding of host range diversification within Strepsiptera.
UW researchers decipher beluga calls to bolster conservation efforts
Researchers at the University of Washington decoded over 1,700 beluga whale calls in Cook Inlet, revealing insights into their social behavior, communication patterns, and vulnerability to human noise. The study suggests that shipping noise may be disrupting critical calf-mother communication, threatening the population's recovery.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 13, 2026
April research news from the Ecological Society of America
Research explores airplane-bird collisions, fungal pathogen's impact on leaf decomposition & plant diversity in sacred forests. A new model predicts bird-aircraft collisions & suggests using onboard signal lights to reduce risk.
New study eavesdrops on the secret lives of birds
Researchers from Cornell Lab of Ornithology used networks of inexpensive microphones to track bird behavior, revealing complex patterns of risk assessment. Birds made subtle tradeoffs between defending territories and evading predators.
Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?
Soil animal communities exhibit greater trophic diversity in agricultural systems and tropical regions, driven by resource limitation and disturbance. This flexibility helps maintain soil functions but may reflect the loss of specialized species.
Do saltwater crocodiles raised in captivity go home after being released into the wild?
A new study found that captive-raised saltwater crocodiles do not return to their breeding centers after release into the wild. This discovery can help inform conservation efforts by revealing that larger, captive-bred crocodiles may be more suitable for reintroduction programs.
Key magic mushroom ingredient makes fish less aggressive and lazier
A study found that psilocybin, a key magic mushroom ingredient, significantly reduces aggressive attack behavior and energetically costly social behaviors in mangrove rivulus fish. The compound selectively dampens escalated social conflict without suppressing lower-energy social display behaviors.
Rare footage of elusive sea-floor creatures and backward-swimming fish captured by compact video-acoustic system in Greenland
A new, non-invasive monitoring system captured striking footage of hyperbenthos, including a snailfish exhibiting backward swimming behavior, and the acoustic presence of narwhals. The study highlights the dynamic nature of the deep-sea environment, with organic particles concentrating in response to tidal currents.
Beetles are likely dispersal vectors for “towering” nematodes
Scientists have discovered a previously undescribed nematode species, Caenorhabditis apta, which forms 'towers' that can attach to fruit flies and other insects. The study found that two sap-feeding beetles are likely the primary vectors of this new species, highlighting the importance of understanding how nematodes spread in the wild.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2026
Seals get their hearts racing to detox after foraging trips at sea
A new study found that fur seals' heart rate peaks six to eight hours after returning to land, indicating a delayed recovery from the physiological costs of foraging at sea. This suggests that seals use their time onshore to actively recover and replenish oxygen stores.
Urban birds fear women more than men, and scientists don’t know why
Researchers found that urban birds flee sooner when approached by women compared to men in a European study. The study involved over 2,700 observations across five countries and 37 bird species, revealing that birds can recognize the sex of approaching humans.
Songbird’s extreme desert migration mapped
The thrush nightingale migrates up to 18,000 km with four-to-five consecutive nighttime flights and daytime breaks to avoid intense heat, conserving energy along the way. Advanced sensors track this extreme behaviour, providing insight into the bird's strategy for survival.
Monkeys learn to self-medicate with soil to help them digest tourists’ junk food
In a unique behavior, monkeys on Gibraltar have learned to eat dirt to help them digest the junk food consumed by tourists, which disrupts their gut microbiome. The researchers found that geophagy is socially learned and has become part of the macaques' culture, with different troops having preferences for certain types of soil.
Promiscuity and parental behavior in birds driven by demographics, not the other way around
New research found that bird species with a skewed sex ratio are primarily caused by demographic factors, not the other way around. The study of 261 bird species revealed that one sex is more likely to die before reproducing due to differences in survival rates.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 22, 2026
Disabled parrot is undefeated alpha male of his group thanks to novel “beak jousting”
A study shows how a kea parrot with a missing upper beak uses innovative fighting techniques to dominate his group and gain social status. He achieves this through 'beak jousting,' which proves more effective than other methods, leading to improved health benefits and social recognition.
Can naked mole rats peacefully hand over power?
Researchers at Salk Institute discovered that naked mole rats can transition to peaceful queen succession, demonstrating flexibility in their social order. This finding challenges previous understanding of colony dynamics and opens new avenues for studying eusocial mammals.
Sunbirds suck their nectar, in dramatic contrast to hummingbirds, which sop it up
A new study reveals that sunbirds employ tongue suction to slurp nectar, a novel mechanism in vertebrates. This finding highlights the power of convergent evolution, where different species adapt to similar ecological challenges in distinct ways.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2026
Personality shapes survival as wildlife faces growing human pressure
A new study reveals that risk-prone animals tend to stay near human activity, while more cautious individuals avoid humans and survive longer. This finding highlights the importance of individual behavior in adapting to human-driven environmental change.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEcology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2026
Smithsonian research associate discovers ants assemble to be picked clean by ‘cleaner’ ants, a novel insect behavior
Entomologist Mark Moffett observes harvester ants congregating with smaller cone ants in Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains. The unusual behavior involves the cone ants licking and nibbling the harvester ants' body surfaces, possibly consuming calorie-rich dust-size morsels.
Tarantulas may use learning and memory to search for food and locate their retreats
Researchers observed tarantulas using spatial orientation to improve prey capture and retreat location, indicating possible learning and memory use. The study suggests that tarantulas' nervous systems support flexible behavior and may rely on internal body signals combined with environmental cues.
Ant larvae control parental care by using odor signals
Researchers have discovered a brood pheromone released by clonal raider ant larvae that temporarily suppresses egg-laying in adult ants. The pheromone, MEHMP, is produced exclusively by larvae and helps synchronize brood care and reproduction in the colony.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2026
Bee dancing is better with the right audience
Researchers found that honey bees change the precision of their waggle dance depending on the size and composition of their audience. The dancers adjust their movements to search for a receptive crowd, resulting in less precise signals when few bees are present.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2026