Commentary on “The Gladiator Sparrow: Ethical issues in behavioral research on captive populations of wild animals”

Abstract

One of the key scientific and ethical arguments for the use of animal models in biomedical research is their usefulness in simulating physiological or pathophysiological processes in humans and/or other animal species. Ethological studies investigate the development, usefulness and evolutionary significance of behavioral patterns using observational rather than experimental approaches. In this respect they differ from classic behavioral experiments because, in a strict sense, the studied species cannot serve as models or surrogates for other species. Consequently, research outcomes from behavioral observations of the Gladiator Sparrow would not be used to draw conclusions for similar behavior observed in other animals, even if those belong in the same taxonomy group. Although behaviors of other species are often held as examples of natural behavior and predictive behavioral models are developed, these should not serve as substitutes for detailed studies of individual species. Although Clarisse’s initial experiments involve passive observation of the research subjects, the descriptive “environmental influences” suggests future manipulations in the form of induced environmental stimuli and/or stressors. Behavioral research with wildlife birds presents unique challenges. In addition, responsible scientific methodology mandates that, prior to initiating these experiments, adequate consideration must be given to the birds’ welfare and any distress, pain or suffering they may experience as a result of or during experiments. Issues that must be addressed include the following: 1. The designated experimental species should be the most appropriate to answer the question(s) asked. Extensive literature reviews in addition to expert advice are necessary to ensure the appropriateness of choice. The usefulness of in-depth literature analysis has been well documented. The standard Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocol submission has a three-fold purpose: first, it ensures that previously done experiments will not be unnecessarily repeated; second, it alerts the researcher to any special characteristics of the response variable to be studied; and third, it informs on the merit of alternative approaches to the use of animals in researching this particular response variable, as mandated by Russell and Burch’s 3 Rs approach (refine, reduce and replace). 1