Variation in reversal learning by three generalist mesocarnivores

Area of Science:

• Urban ecology
• Animal behavior
• Cognitive science

Background:

• Urbanization presents challenges and opportunities for wildlife.
• Generalist species thrive in urban environments, but the cognitive underpinnings of their success are understudied.
• Cognitive flexibility is hypothesized to enhance adaptability to diverse environments, including urban ones.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate cognitive flexibility in three common urban mesocarnivores: striped skunks, raccoons, and coyotes.
• To assess the role of cognitive flexibility in the adaptation of generalist species to urban habitats.
• To explore interspecific variation in cognitive performance among urban wildlife.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a classic reversal-learning paradigm to measure cognitive flexibility.
• Developed an automated device for captive testing, minimizing training and experimenter interaction.
• Assessed striped skunks, raccoons, and coyotes using a standardized protocol.

Main Results:

• Most subjects demonstrated the ability to form and reverse learned associations.
• Moderate variation in performance and behavior was observed across individuals and species.
• Coyotes exhibited notable neophobia and a lack of habituation compared to other species.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive flexibility varies among generalist urban mesocarnivores, potentially influencing their adaptation strategies.
• Differences in neophobia and habituation may play a role in species-specific urban success.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the links between cognition, generalism, and urban adaptation.