Researchers observed male European robins (Erithacus rubecula) in their natural nesting territories. When a highly realistic model of an adult competitor with a bright red breast was introduced, the resident males immediately exhibited a fixed sequence of threat displays (head-looping, wing-shaking, and pecking). The exact same sequence of behaviors was also triggered when a simple cluster of red feathers on a stick was presented. However, no aggressive threat displays were triggered by a highly detailed model of a rival robin that was painted entirely brown (lacking the red breast).
Describe what is meant by a fixed action pattern. Refer to the study of robins above in your answer.
12 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Psychology Ethological and evolutionary explanations of aggression. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.