Using American Robins (Turdus migratorius) to Demonstrate Concepts of Behavioral Ecology in Introductory Biology Courses

 

Kimberly Bolyard & Tamara L. Johnstone-Yellin

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2015, Volume 36

Abstract

In this two to three hour lab, students investigate the costs, benefits, and trade-offs of foraging in groups. Students ask whether American robins (Turdus migratorius) are more likely to forage alone or in groups during the spring breeding season. Students evaluate this question by investigating whether robins are more likely to perform a prey strike if they are alone or if they are in a group. They also examine the trade-off that might exist between foraging and anti-predator vigilance. This experiment can be conducted anywhere large spaces are available for robin foraging, on campus or off, and requires only binoculars and stopwatches. We offer additional questions and modifications including statistical analysis for upper level ecology students.

Keywords:  ecology, animal behavior, foraging activity, tradeoffs

University of Oregon (2014)