Learning outdoors: male lizards show flexible spatial learning under semi-natural conditions

Abstract

Spatial cognition is predicted to be a fundamental component of fitness in many lizard species, and yet some studies suggest that it is relatively slow and inflexible. However, such claims are based on work conducted using experimental designs or in artificial contexts that may underestimate their cognitive abilities. We used a biologically realistic experimental procedure (using simulated predatory attacks) to study spatial learning and its flexibility in the lizard Eulamprus quoyii in semi-natural outdoor enclosures under similar conditions to those experienced by lizards in the wild. To evaluate the flexibility of spatial learning, we conducted a reversal spatial-learning task in which positive and negative reinforcements of learnt spatial stimuli were switched. Nineteen (32%) male lizards learnt both tasks within 10 days (spatial task mean: 8.16 + + + + + 0.69 (s.e.) and reversal spatial task mean: 10.74 + + + + + 0.98 (s.e.) trials). We demonstrate that E. quoyii are capable of flexible spatial learning and suggest that future studies focus on a range of lizard species which differ in phylogeny and/or ecology, using biologically relevant cognitive tasks, in an effort to bridge the cognitive divide between ectoand endotherms.

Incubation under climate warming affects learning ability and survival in hatchling lizards

“…Lizards are adept spatial learners [12,14,15], but to date, few studies have examined whether variation in learning ability affects the fitness of lizards or other wild animals [16], so we know little about the nature of selection on cognitive traits [2]. In this study, we investigated whether incubation temperatures influence the learning ability of hatchling velvet geckos, Amalosia lesueurii, and if so, whether learning ability affects hatchling survival in the wild.…”

“…In lizards, incubation temperatures influence many offspring traits, including body size, sex and speed [8], and can also affect brain development [9][10][11] and learning ability [12,13]. Most reptiles lack parental care, so that hatchlings must learn to locate essential resources such as shelter sites, which serve as refuges when fleeing from predators [14]. In this context, spatial learning ability may be particularly important for lizard survival.…”

Sex and boldness explain individual differences in spatial learning in a lizard

“…To measure spatial learning, we set up a simple spatial learning assay using an anti-predatory paradigm that has been used successfully in previous studies [32,34]. We initiated trials by reintroducing the two side refuges in the same positions as in the anti-predatory trial (the 'cold' refuge in the anti-predatory trial was selected to act as the 'safe' refuge across spatial learning trials) and removing the middle refuge, after which lizards were given a variable amount of exploration time (30-45 min).…”

“…It is believed to be under strong selection given its importance in foraging, territorial and anti-predatory behaviour, which often require quick and flexible learning of territorial boundaries, suitable escape routes and refuges [33,34]. Not surprisingly, lizards have been found to be capable of quick and flexible spatial learning when tested under a biologically realistic learning paradigm [34]. Furthermore, males and females of many lizard species are generally subjected to different spatial demands because of differences in reproductive tactics and behaviour during the reproductive season.…”

Age-dependent social learning in a lizard

“…Lizards are likely to be good candidates for testing social learning because they show behavioural flexibility and rapid learning [7][8][9]. We tested for age-related social learning in a non-group-living lizard (Eulamprus quoyii) known for relatively rapid spatial learning ability [8,9].…”