Principles of Animal Behavior

Principles of Animal Behavior, 4th Edition, provides an accessible introduction to behavioral biology. The textbook establishes a theoretical and conceptual framework in each chapter to support discussions of empirical research.

The volume addresses both proximate and ultimate causation across species. Core topics center on three foundational pillars: natural selection, learning, and cultural transmission. The text also reviews underlying physiological, neurobiological, and molecular genetic mechanisms.

Designed for undergraduate offerings in animal behavior and behavioral ecology, this fourth edition incorporates Cognitive Connection boxes in Chapters 2 through 17. These features prompt readers to explore the cognitive underpinnings associated with specific behavioral subjects.