The research, published in the journal "Scientific Reports," found that both male and female chicks that had been orphaned as hatchlings and exposed to a raptor's call exhibited more playful behaviors compared to chicks that did not hear the raptor's call. However, the male chicks responded more strongly, spending nearly three times as much time playing as the females.
Raptor's call triggers 'predator play'
The researchers believe this may be because the raptor's call triggers a 'predator play' response in the male chicks, preparing them for potential threats in their environment. This response is less pronounced in female chicks because their future survival is less tied to hunting and more on brood care.
Link to raptor hunting behavior
Lead researcher Dr. Anna Iwaniuk said this difference may be due to evolutionary pressures. In raptor species such as hawks, eagles, and falcons, males often play more than females, using play to develop hunting skills essential for survival. Since male chicks are more likely to become predators, the raptor's call may be acting as a cue for them to start developing their hunting behaviors through play.
The study also found that male chicks that were most responsive to the raptor's call grew up to have the highest testosterone levels. This suggests testosterone production is linked to 'predator play' in male chicks, supporting the theory that this play is a precursor to adult hunting behavior.
Potential conservation implications
Researchers suggest that this link between play and future survival may have implications for conservation efforts, as play deprivation in captive environments could hinder survival. Studying the connection between play and evolutionary adaptations can provide valuable insights into the well-being of endangered bird species.
