Experimental assessment of problem solving by Milvago chimango (Aves: Falconiformes)

LAURA MARINA BIONDI, MARIA SUSANA BO, ALDO IVAN VASSALLO

Journal of Ethology

Springer Japan

Año: 2008 vol. 26 p. 113 - 118

0289-0771

Abstract. We report a preliminary assessment ofproblem solving as an estimate of behavioural innovationand learning ability of a generalist and abundantraptor, Milvago chimango, under controlled conditionsin aviaries. Experimental tests consisted in presentationof a Plexiglas box with four lids leading to isolatedpieces of meat. We recorded time to first contact withthe box and time from this first contact to gaining accessto the pieces of meat. We recorded the number of attemptsto open the box and reach the first portion ofmeat, and the total number of lids opened by eachindividual during five successive daily sessions. Wefound that individuals of M. chimango quickly approachedand made contact with the Plexiglas box, andresponded successfully to the novel feeding problem ofreaching the food inside. In our study, performance ofindividuals was enhanced after solution of the noveltask for the first time, as indicated by the progressivelyreduced time taken to access the food. Further, someindividuals gained access to an increasing number ofsections of the Plexiglas box during subsequent sessions,suggesting significant learning ability. Our resultsindicated M. chimango has a remarkable ability to obtainfood in a novel situation, an observation that agreeswith anecdotal reports of opening of receptacles toobtain food in urban environments. The results supportthe idea of behavioural plasticity in this species.