Effect of spatial context on the mobbing reaction of pied flycatchers to a predator model

Abstract

Seven pairs of breeding pied flycatchers ( Ficedula hypoleuca) were repeatedly presented a stuffed owl from a specific location until their mobbing response had waned. Subsequent change in the location of the ‘predator’ evoked renewed responsiveness from the birds, as measured by their increased calling rate. The results suggest that predator recognition incorporates an evaluation of the spatial context and, furthermore, support the view that the relative lack of habituation to recurring predators in nature is due, in part, to ever-changing spatial relationships of the predator relative to the inanimate environment.