Mapping nonhuman cultures with the Animal Culture Database

Abstract

Socially transmitted behaviors are widespread across the animal kingdom, yet there is a lack of comprehensive datasets documenting their distribution and ecological significance. Knowledge of animal behavioral traditions could be essential for understanding many species’ responses to anthropogenic disturbances and further enhancing conservation efforts. Here, we introduce the first open-access database that synthesizes data on animal cultural behaviors and traditions. The Animal Culture Database (ACDB) contains descriptions of 128 behaviors including forms of vocal communication, migration, predator defense, foraging practices, habitat alteration, play, mating displays, and other social behaviors for an initial sample of 61 species. In addition to offering an open-access resource for researchers, educators, and conservationists, the ACDB represents a step toward recognizing the role of social learning in animal populations.