The Detection and Choice of Prey

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The interactions between predators and prey are an important part of all ecological systems. In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the dynamics of predator-prey systems are strongly influenced by the behaviors of foraging animals. Many sensory and decision-making processes are involved in the behavior of both predators and prey. Dr. Kamil will experimentally investigate these processes in an omnivorous, highly skilled predator and forager, the blue jay. Experiments will determine the effects of variation in the spatial and/or temporal distribution of prey on where the birds hunt, and for how long; the effects of temporal constraints on the breadth of the birds' diet; the ability of the jays to collect and utilize information about changing, dynamic prey populations; and the effects of variation in the appearance of prey on the birds' ability to detect the prey. The results of these experiments will be important in three related ways. (1) Because many of the decision-making abilities of animals evolved in the context of foraging behavior, these experiments will help to reveal the nature of these abilities and their biological significance. (2) Dr. Kamil's experiments also will provide basic information about the dynamics of predator- prey interactions, which will contribute to our understanding of ecological systems. (3) A better understanding of predator-prey interactions in ecological systems should prove valuable in estimating the effects of alterations in natural systems.