Cognition Research

Our lab studies behavior and cognition, which is the ways in which animals perceive and interact with their environment. An animal's behavior and cognition is very important for survival because it affects mate choice, foraging selection, and other survival decisions. Much of the research on cognition and behavior in songbirds has been through their unifying trait: song. However, research has also been published on their innovation, problem solving performance, and vocal learning. 

Currently, we are trying to see if urban noise affects the cognition of birds. Does urban noise affect their cognitive performance? Does it affect their development? There is little research in this area, however is valuable information for conservation purposes as songbirds have been in drastic decline. 

​