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Updated: May 22, 2026

Assessing Spatial Learning and Memory in Small Squamate Reptiles
Published on: January 3, 2017
Spatial memory and the avian hippocampus: research in zebra finches
Uwe Mayer1, Shigeru Watanabe2, Hans-Joachim Bischof1
1Neuroethology, Bielefeld University, PO Box 100131, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany.
Abstract:
The aim of the present review is to show that spatial learning and memory is not a specialty of just a few avian species, and to describe the role of the avian hippocampus in spatial learning, memory and orientation. Based on our own research in zebra finches, we try to give an (not complete and probably biased) overview of this topic, and we also discuss the question of functional equivalence of hippocampus in birds and in mammals in that we question how far theories developed for mammalian hippocampus can also be applied to the avian hippocampal formation.

