STUDY: ‘Nuisance Animals’ Thrive Despite Being Discriminated Against
The study lists a range of qualities and mechanisms that reflect cognition, that help to survive, and that lead to interaction between such 'nuisance animals' and humans.
LUKAS JASIUNAS: ‘Impressive cognitive abilities of urban animals are wide ranging and well-documented. From grey squirrels, notoriously skilled at getting into bird feeders, crows learning about dangerous humans and subsequently avoiding specific places and humans, to chimpanzees who have learned to look left and right before crossing busy roads – animal adaptation is nothing short of awe-striking. Such problem-solving abilities may at the very least partially explain some species’ success. Naturally, there are good reasons for animals to develop awareness and avoidance behaviors towards us…
A team of researchers reviewed numerous studies to shed light on the cognitive abilities of such animals… the scientists list a range of several qualities and mechanisms that reflect cognition, that help to survive, and that lead to interaction between such animals and humans… some animals minimize their contact with humans or avoid us altogether. Strategies to achieve such solitude include increasing nocturnal activity and discriminative learning. Urban species have experienced many different control measures, most of which deliver pain, fear, and death by design. Sensitization is typically quickly developed via the sense of taste, with many species becoming ‘bait or trap shy’…
The researchers note that lethal methods may be ineffective or cause negative consequences on ecosystems, not to mention that they are increasingly less tolerated by the public. However, current non-lethal strategies are often overcome by animal cognition. Since the success of non-lethal deterrents cannot be assured, the researchers urge for more studies on the behaviour and cognition of urban-dwelling species to better design and execute humane mitigation strategies. For example, the researchers note that recently, an innovative method of using garbage bins with built-in automated feeders that reward animals for the disposal of litter underwent a pilot program.
Such innovative methods promote a more harmonious relationship between humans and other species in urban environments. Although empathy towards animals is often elicited by animals’ anthropogenic qualities, the same cognitive abilities may paradoxically predispose animals to be seen as ‘nuisance’ species by people. The research group argues for continuous efforts in public education and human behavior modification with respect to wild animals’. SOURCE…
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