Better learners in collared flycatchers are more likely to imitate competitors

[PhysOrg]

Many animal species use social information—from conspecifics or other species—to inform their behavioral choices, for example where to look for food or build a nest. In a recent study, ornithologists have shown for the first time that the ability to use such information can depend on an individual's cognitive skills. In the collared flycatcher, females that mastered a learning task faster were more likely to copy the nest site choices of great and blue tits in the same area.

View the full article