How to Complete an Animal Behaviour Study

Step 1

To study animal behaviour, choose a species to focus on (preferably one that’s easy to identify and it can help if it’s an active species). 

Step 2

Then, consider all of the background information on that animal and choose a topic linked to them that you’re interested in.

Step 3

Based on that topic, ask a question and this will lead to a hypothesis. 

Example

For example, knowing Scotland, you might ask, ‘Does a decrease in rain affect gentoo penguin courtship behaviours?’ which can then lead to a hypothesis statement of: ‘less rain will increase penguin courtship behaviours.’ 

Once you have a hypothesis, you’re ready for an ethogram!