Spatial versus nonspatial relational learning in free-ranging fox squirrels (Sciurus niger).

Abstract

This experiment was designed t o assess spatial and nonspatial relational learning i n free-ranging squirrels. The authors tested the possible use o f proximal landmarks a s conditional information to predict the locations of nuts, hidden in small dishes distributed on a plastic board. Squirrels were trained to associate the presence of 1 object, at the center of the board, with 1 set of baited dishes, whereas the presence of a 2nd object, placed alternatively at the same location, was associated with another set of dishes. They did not acquire the nonspatial relational task on the basis of proximal landmarks. They developed a win-stay spatial strategy relying on directional information derived from distant visuospatial cues and neglected proximal spatial information when it conflicted. They relied on their memory of the food locations in the previous trial to predict the nuts' locations, even though the objects were the only predictors of these locations.