bbsrc:

Animal cultures: Nature’s second inheritance system

It’s easy to think that human culture completely separates our species from others. However, BBSRC-funded research has revealed cultural processes of varying complexity in primates, birds and fish. 

Studies have identified cultural differences across different wild populations and shown migrating individuals conforming to local group habits.

Understanding different animal’s cultures illuminates human cultural evolution, and has implications in areas as varied as child development, robotics, welfare and conservation.

If you want to find out more about this research, the scientists will have an exhibit at the Great British Bioscience Festival in November in London.

Top image copyright: Dr Simon Walker

Bottom image copyright: Catherine Hobaiter

Read more: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/society/exhibitions/gb-bioscience-festival/animal-cultures-natures-second-inheritance-system.aspx