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Systematic changes in gaping during the ontogeny of pecking in ring doves (Streptopelia risoria)
J D Deich1, J Tankoos, P D Balsam
1Department of Psychology, Barnard College of Columbia University, New York, New York 00027, USA.
Developmental Psychobiology
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Ring doves develop food pecking skills through experience. Their beak movements, or gape, evolve through distinct stages, improving seed capture efficiency and motor control.
Area of Science:
- Ethology
- Developmental Biology
- Motor Control
Background:
- Food pecking in ring doves is a complex prehensile action requiring coordination and accurate direction.
- Previous research indicates that this behavior is initially unrefined and improves with practice.
- The pecking response comprises head thrusting and beak manipulation (gape).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental trajectory of the gape component in ring dove food pecking.
- To determine the role of experience in the refinement of gape topography and food acquisition.
- To explore the implications for understanding motor skill ontogeny and behavioral development.
Main Methods:
- Precise measurement system employed to track gape development in young ring doves (squabs).
- Observation of four squabs throughout their developmental period.
- Analysis of sequential changes in gape topography related to feeding efficiency.
Main Results:
- Four squabs exhibited a consistent developmental sequence of three distinct gape topographies.
- Each successive gape topography demonstrated increased efficiency in picking up seeds.
- The observed developmental pattern suggests a significant role for experience in refining pecking.
Conclusions:
- Experience significantly contributes to the development and refinement of food pecking behavior in ring doves.
- The study provides insights into the ontogeny of motor control and how experience shapes behavioral development.
- Developmental changes in gape topography are crucial for efficient food acquisition.