I expect you have encountered a spider’s web, a bird’s nest or an
ant mound and admired the sophistication of animal architecture.
Animals of diverse species build structures to protect themselves
from predators and the elements, to catch prey or to communicate
information. Animal architecture amazes us with its shapes and
textures, but the most fascinating of all are the decisions involved
in building something that could last and be functional. Where to
build? On what surface? What materials to use? An interesting
issue is whether learning plays a part in making such decisions.
Individuals who are capable of making a choice informed by experience
are more likely to protect themselves, survive for longer and
have more offspring. For example, birds are more likely to return to
habitats or particular nest sites if their breeding experience there
was successful and less likely to return if their breeding experience
was unsuccessful