Behavioral Science
Uncovering hidden intelligence of collectives
Scientists discover that information processing in animal groups occurs not only in the brains of animals but also in their social network.
Read moreCats are securely bonded to their people, too
Cats have a reputation for being aloof and independent. But a study of the way domestic cats respond to their caregivers suggests that their socio-cognitive abilities and the depth of their human attachments have been underestimated. The findings show that, much like children and dogs, pet cats form secure and insecure bonds with their human caretakers.
Read moreGreen light given to fruit fly's color preference
Researchers have made two unexpected discoveries. First, they found that, given a choice, fruit flies are drawn to green light early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when they are most active, and to red, or dim light, in midday, when like many humans, they slow down to eat and perhaps take a siesta.
Read moreThese pink sea urchins have teeth that sharpen themselves
Sea urchins have five teeth, each held by a separate jaw in a circular arrangement at the center of their spiked, spherical bodies. Now, researchers have discovered how the teeth of the pink sea urchin are specially equipped to sharpen themselves.
Read moreGenetically tailored instruction improves songbird learning
A new study conducted in songbirds demonstrates that what at first appear to be genetic constraints on birds' song learning abilities could be largely eliminated by tailoring instruction to better match the birds' inborn predispositions.
Read moreCBD may alleviate seizures, benefit behaviors in people with neurodevelopmental conditions
A marijuana plant extract, also known as cannabidiol (CBD), is being commonly used to improve anxiety, sleep problems, pain, and many other neurological conditions. Now researchers show it may alleviate seizures and normalize brain rhythms in Angelman syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental condition.
Read moreNature documentaries increasingly talk about threats to nature, but still don't show them
Researchers analyzing recent BBC and Netflix nature documentaries found that although they increasingly mention threats to nature, visual depictions of these threats remain scarce, potentially misleading audiences on the state of the natural world.
Read moreFor lemurs, sex role reversal may get its start in the womb
In lemur society, it's not males but the females who are in charge. A new study of the role of hormones in aggression in lemurs from before birth to adulthood suggests female domination gets wired early, while lemurs are still in the womb.
Read moreSocial isolation derails brain development in mice
Female mice housed alone during adolescence show atypical development of the prefrontal cortex and resort to habitual behavior in adulthood, according to new research. These findings show how social isolation could lead to an over-reliance on habit-like behaviors that are associated with addiction and obesity.
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