CPA Animal Behavior & Psychology 3

Question 1

What is the main distinction between 'learning' and 'instinct' in animal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Learning is modified by experience while instinct is genetically programmed

Answer

Instinctive behaviors are genetically encoded and occur without prior experience, while learning involves behavioral changes resulting from experience.

Question 2

In observational learning, animals acquire new behaviors primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Watching and imitating others

Answer

Observational learning (social learning) occurs when an animal watches another perform a behavior and then replicates it.

Question 3

A foraging animal that selects food patches to maximize energy intake while minimizing time spent searching is following:

Accepted Answer

Optimal foraging theory

Answer

Optimal foraging theory predicts that animals forage in ways that maximize net energy gain relative to time and effort expended.

Question 4

What term describes the phenomenon where animals perform a behavior better or faster when in the presence of others?

Accepted Answer

Social facilitation

Answer

Social facilitation is the enhancement of an organism's performance on tasks in the presence of others.

Question 5

Which type of animal communication uses chemical signals released into the environment to affect the behavior of others of the same species?

Accepted Answer

Pheromones

Answer

Pheromones are chemical signals that transmit information between members of the same species, influencing behaviors like mating and alarm responses.

(CPA) Certified Petroleum Apprentice Practice Test

(CPA) Certified Petroleum Apprentice Practice Test

CPA Animal Behavior & Psychology 3