Observational learning in Japanese quail

In spite of interest in the cultural transmission of animal behaviour, observational learning has not previously been demonstrated in Japanese quail. In the present experiment three groups of 10 quail were trained to peck for reinforcement under discriminative stimulus control. The group which was allowed to observe performance of skilled companions learned faster than a group observing no-pecking models and a group learning without observational experience. Furthermore, observation of no-pecking models can inhibit learning. A sensory—sensory conditioning model can account for the results. © 1980, All rights reserved.