Effects of social and asocial learning on longevity of food-preference traditions

Article Abstract:

A study exploring the interactive effects of social and asocial learning on the longevity of food-preference traditions in Norwegian rats is described. Rats of founding colonies were trained to avoid eating an unfamiliar diet and were then released into floor enclosures containing one familiar and one unfamiliar food. The food preferences of the colonies were recorded while the founding members were replaced by new rats. It was shown that the increased opportunity for social learning decreased the stability of food preferences across generations.

Social aspects, Animal feeding and feeds, Rattus norvegicus, Norway rat

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A new way to study teaching in animals: Despite demonstrable benefits, rat dams do not teach their young what to eat

Article Abstract:

A study of whether Rattus novegicus dams modify their food choices to teach their young about the safety of what they should eat and the effectiveness of such teaching is demonstrated. The results suggest that though no evidence of teaching by rat dams is found, an investigation of teaching in many vertebrate species should be permitted.

United States, Behavior, Animal feeding behaviour, Animal feeding behavior

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Increased reliance on socially acquired information while foraging in risky situations?

Article Abstract:

A study conducted to analyze the influence of socially acquired information on the food preferences in Norway rats, Rattus norvegicus is discussed.

Canada, Psychological aspects, Food habits, Social learning, Animal social behaviour

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