Top 247+ Animal Behavior Project Ideas 2025-26

Studying animal behavior is a fascinating way to learn about biology, ecology, and psychology all at once. Whether you’re a budding scientist, a classroom student, or someone who simply loves animals, exploring how animals act and interact can lead to exciting discoveries.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know: from choosing the best project to the materials you’ll need, tips for success, real examples, and the benefits of diving into animal behavior research.

Must Read: 469+ Human Behavior Project Ideas: Experiments, Tips & Benefits

What Is an Animal Behavior Project?

An animal behavior project investigates how and why animals behave the way they do. This can include their movement patterns, social interactions, feeding habits, communication methods, and more.

Projects can be as simple as observing pets at home or as complex as designing experiments with local wildlife.

Why Study Animal Behavior?

• Understand Nature: Gain insights into survival strategies, mating rituals, and social structures.
• Conservation: Identify how human activities affect wildlife and propose solutions.
• Cross-Disciplinary: Combines biology, psychology, data analysis, and even ethics.
• Skill Building: Learn observation, recording data, critical thinking, and scientific writing.

How to Choose a Better Project

1. Interest & Passion
   • Pick an animal you find fascinating—birds, insects, pets, or even garden snails!
2. Feasibility
   • Consider what animals are accessible to you and whether you can observe them safely.
3. Scope & Scale
   • Decide if you want a short-term project (a few weeks) or a longer-term study (months).
4. Originality
   • Review existing studies to find gaps or new angles.
5. Ethics & Permissions
   • Always ensure your observations or interactions don’t harm the animals. Obtain any necessary permissions.

Top 247+ Animal Behavior Project Ideas 2025-26

Insect Behavior

1. Ant Trail Following.
   • What you need: ant farm, sugar solution, magnifying glass.
   • Tip / How to choose: pick a strong trail for clear observation.
   • Example observation: count ants following a fresh sugar trail.
   • Benefits: understand pheromone communication.
2. Bee Waggle Dance.
   • What you need: hive observation box, ruler.
   • Tip / How to choose: observe on a sunny day.
   • Example observation: measure angle of dance relative to sun.
   • Benefits: learn about spatial communication.
3. Ladybug Feeding Preference.
   • What you need: potted plants with aphids and mealybugs.
   • Tip / How to choose: choose two prey types.
   • Example observation: record number of aphids eaten vs. mealybugs.
   • Benefits: insight into predator diet selection.
4. Grasshopper Jump Distance.
   • What you need: ruler, sandbox, grasshoppers.
   • Tip / How to choose: use similar-sized individuals.
   • Example observation: measure each jump length.
   • Benefits: study locomotion.
5. Butterfly Flower Preference.
   • What you need: potted flowers of two colors.
   • Tip / How to choose: equal blooms per color.
   • Example observation: count visits per color.
   • Benefits: pollinator choice behavior.
6. Termite Tunnel Building.
   • What you need: clear container, sand, termites.
   • Tip / How to choose: keep moisture consistent.
   • Example observation: map tunnel patterns.
   • Benefits: learn collective construction.
7. Fruit Fly Phototaxis.
   • What you need: test tubes, light source, fruit flies.
   • Tip / How to choose: use dim and bright light.
   • Example observation: count flies near each end.
   • Benefits: study light response.
8. Praying Mantis Hunting Strategy.
   • What you need: enclosure, live prey (flies).
   • Tip / How to choose: observe at feeding times.
   • Example observation: note stalking vs. ambush.
   • Benefits: predator tactics.
9. Cockroach Climbing Ability.
   • What you need: smooth vertical surface, cockroaches.
   • Tip / How to choose: test different textures.
   • Example observation: record success rate.
   • Benefits: adhesion mechanics.
10. Cricket Chirp Rate vs. Temperature.
    • What you need: thermometer, live crickets.
    • Tip / How to choose: vary room temperature.
    • Example observation: count chirps per minute.
    • Benefits: link behavior to environment.
11. Dragonfly Flight Patterns.
    • What you need: pond access, stopwatch.
    • Tip / How to choose: record short flights.
    • Example observation: time flight durations.
    • Benefits: study aerial agility.
12. Water Strider Surface Movement.
    • What you need: shallow tray of water, striders.
    • Tip / How to choose: use calm water.
    • Example observation: track distance moved.
    • Benefits: surface tension adaptation.
13. Silkworm Feeding Rate.
    • What you need: mulberry leaves, silkworms.
    • Tip / How to choose: weigh leaves before/after.
    • Example observation: calculate eaten mass.
    • Benefits: growth study.
14. Ant Colony Size vs. Foraging.
    • What you need: two ant colonies of different sizes.
    • Tip / How to choose: keep food equal.
    • Example observation: compare food returned.
    • Benefits: social organization.
15. Bee Pollen Collection Patterns.
    • What you need: pollen traps, hive.
    • Tip / How to choose: sample same time each day.
    • Example observation: weight of pollen.
    • Benefits: resource gathering.
16. Wasp Nest Architecture.
    • What you need: nest replicas or photos.
    • Tip / How to choose: use non-dangerous species.
    • Example observation: note cell shapes.
    • Benefits: material use.
17. Termite Response to Light.
    • What you need: covered and uncovered chambers.
    • Tip / How to choose: use low-level light.
    • Example observation: count termites in each.
    • Benefits: light aversion.
18. Beetle Rolling Behavior.
    • What you need: small balls (dung mimic), dung beetles.
    • Tip / How to choose: use consistent ball size.
    • Example observation: time to roll set distance.
    • Benefits: biomechanical study.
19. Antagonistic Behavior in Ants.
    • What you need: two ant species in adjacent arenas.
    • Tip / How to choose: avoid escapes.
    • Example observation: record aggression displays.
    • Benefits: interspecies interactions.
20. Grasshopper Sound Production.
    • What you need: microphone, grasshoppers.
    • Tip / How to choose: record in quiet room.
    • Example observation: note frequency of stridulation.
    • Benefits: communication methods.

Bird Behavior

21. Bird Feeding Preference.
    • What you need: two types of birdseed, feeders.
    • Tip / How to choose: equal amounts.
    • Example observation: weight difference eaten.
    • Benefits: dietary choice.
22. Nesting Material Selection.
    • What you need: twigs, feathers, cloth.
    • Tip / How to choose: place options equidistant.
    • Example observation: which materials used most.
    • Benefits: nesting ecology.
23. Migration Timing with Weather.
    • What you need: binoculars, weather log.
    • Tip / How to choose: note dates precisely.
    • Example observation: first arrival times.
    • Benefits: phenology study.
24. Courtship Display Variation.
    • What you need: camera, field guide.
    • Tip / How to choose: observe same species.
    • Example observation: count display components.
    • Benefits: mating rituals.
25. Song Complexity vs. Habitat.
    • What you need: audio recorder, habitat map.
    • Tip / How to choose: record 5 song cycles.
    • Example observation: number of notes.
    • Benefits: acoustic adaptation.
26. Bird Territorial Call Frequency.
    • What you need: recorder, stopwatch.
    • Tip / How to choose: early morning sessions.
    • Example observation: calls per minute.
    • Benefits: territory defense.
27. Foraging Height Preference.
    • What you need: observation post, tape measure.
    • Tip / How to choose: mark heights.
    • Example observation: perch height vs. feeding.
    • Benefits: niche separation.
28. Feather Preening Behavior.
    • What you need: video camera.
    • Tip / How to choose: record undisturbed.
    • Example observation: duration of preening bouts.
    • Benefits: hygiene maintenance.
29. Flock Formation Patterns.
    • What you need: open field, video camera.
    • Tip / How to choose: use landmarks.
    • Example observation: shape changes in flight.
    • Benefits: collective movement.
30. Chick Feeding Frequency.
    • What you need: nest box cam.
    • Tip / How to choose: minimize disturbance.
    • Example observation: feeds per hour.
    • Benefits: parental care study.
31. Bird Reaction to Predator Models.
    • What you need: stuffed owl or hawk model.
    • Tip / How to choose: place at safe distance.
    • Example observation: alarm calls.
    • Benefits: anti-predator behavior.
32. Bathing Behavior in Birds.
    • What you need: birdbath, water.
    • Tip / How to choose: clean water daily.
    • Example observation: time spent splashing.
    • Benefits: feather maintenance.
33. Roosting Site Selection.
    • What you need: roost markers, map.
    • Tip / How to choose: mark multiple sites.
    • Example observation: site features (trees vs. buildings).
    • Benefits: habitat preference.
34. Egg Turning by Parent Birds.
    • What you need: nest cam.
    • Tip / How to choose: note every hour.
    • Example observation: number of turns per hour.
    • Benefits: incubation success.
35. Bird Alarm Calling Across Species.
    • What you need: speaker, playback calls.
    • Tip / How to choose: use recordings.
    • Example observation: response latency.
    • Benefits: interspecies communication.
36. Bird Feeding Frequency on Different Fruits.
    • What you need: apple slices, banana, feeder.
    • Tip / How to choose: rotate fruit daily.
    • Example observation: visits per fruit type.
    • Benefits: fruit attractiveness.
37. Sun Compass Use in Homing Pigeons.
    • What you need: pigeon loft, release tags.
    • Tip / How to choose: track on sunny days.
    • Example observation: return times.
    • Benefits: navigation cues.
38. Wing-Flapping Rate vs. Size.
    • What you need: video camera, ruler.
    • Tip / How to choose: record small/large birds.
    • Example observation: flaps per second.
    • Benefits: flight energetics.
39. Nocturnal Bird Activity.
    • What you need: audio recorder, night-vision.
    • Tip / How to choose: record after sunset.
    • Example observation: calls per hour.
    • Benefits: night behavior.
40. Seed Caching by Jays.
    • What you need: peanuts, marked area.
    • Tip / How to choose: use identifiable seeds.
    • Example observation: retrieval rate days later.
    • Benefits: memory study.

Mammal Behavior

41. Mouse Maze Learning.
    • What you need: simple maze, mice.
    • Tip / How to choose: consistent trials.
    • Example observation: time to exit.
    • Benefits: spatial learning.
42. Dog Response to Commands.
    • What you need: volunteer dogs, treat.
    • Tip / How to choose: same handler.
    • Example observation: success rate.
    • Benefits: training effectiveness.
43. Cat Play Behavior with Toys.
    • What you need: ball, string toy.
    • Tip / How to choose: rotate toys.
    • Example observation: time spent playing.
    • Benefits: enrichment needs.
44. Rabbit Thumping as Alarm.
    • What you need: pet rabbits.
    • Tip / How to choose: create gentle startle.
    • Example observation: number of thumps.
    • Benefits: warning signals.
45. Guinea Pig Social Interaction.
    • What you need: two guinea pigs, enclosure.
    • Tip / How to choose: same sex groups.
    • Example observation: grooming events.
    • Benefits: social bonds.
46. Hamster Wheel Usage at Night.
    • What you need: wheel, roller counter.
    • Tip / How to choose: log nightly.
    • Example observation: turns per night.
    • Benefits: activity patterns.
47. Squirrel Food Hoarding.
    • What you need: nuts, marked yard.
    • Tip / How to choose: use distinct nut types.
    • Example observation: cache locations.
    • Benefits: memory mapping.
48. Bat Echolocation Sharpness.
    • What you need: microphone, bat box.
    • Tip / How to choose: ultrasonic detector.
    • Example observation: call frequency.
    • Benefits: sonar study.
49. Horse Herd Hierarchy.
    • What you need: stable access.
    • Tip / How to choose: observe calm times.
    • Example observation: dominant interactions.
    • Benefits: social structure.
50. Goat Grazing Patterns.
    • What you need: pasture, goats.
    • Tip / How to choose: mark grazing areas.
    • Example observation: time spent per patch.
    • Benefits: feeding ecology.
51. Elephant Dust Bathing.
    • What you need: zoo access, camera.
    • Tip / How to choose: record midday.
    • Example observation: dusting duration.
    • Benefits: skin health behavior.
52. Seal Haul-Out Timing.
    • What you need: coastal observation post.
    • Tip / How to choose: tide chart.
    • Example observation: number hauled out per hour.
    • Benefits: thermoregulation.
53. Fox Den Selection.
    • What you need: wildlife cam.
    • Tip / How to choose: monitor multiple dens.
    • Example observation: den location features.
    • Benefits: habitat choice.
54. Otter Play Behavior.
    • What you need: river access, binoculars.
    • Tip / How to choose: observe during low human traffic.
    • Example observation: slides vs. chases.
    • Benefits: social enrichment.
55. Raccoon Problem-Solving.
    • What you need: food puzzle box, raccoons.
    • Tip / How to choose: moderate difficulty.
    • Example observation: time to open.
    • Benefits: cognitive ability.
56. Chipmunk Vocalizations.
    • What you need: audio recorder.
    • Tip / How to choose: record near burrow.
    • Example observation: call types.
    • Benefits: alarm communication.
57. Otter Tools Use (rocks).
    • What you need: small stones, enclosure.
    • Tip / How to choose: provide food requiring cracking.
    • Example observation: tool selection.
    • Benefits: tool-use study.
58. Beaver Dam Building.
    • What you need: pond shore, observation.
    • Tip / How to choose: map structure.
    • Example observation: branch sizes used.
    • Benefits: ecosystem engineering.
59. Monkey Grooming Networks.
    • What you need: troop observation, notebook.
    • Tip / How to choose: identify individuals.
    • Example observation: grooming pairs.
    • Benefits: social bonds.
60. Bat Roost Choice by Light.
    • What you need: artificial light, bat box.
    • Tip / How to choose: vary light intensity.
    • Example observation: roost occupancy.
    • Benefits: light pollution effects.

Marine Animal Behavior

61. Dolphin Pod Coordination.

• What you need: binoculars, boat or shore access.
• Tip / How to choose: observe calm seas.
• Example observation: count synchronized jumps.
• Benefits: teamwork in mammals.

62. Octopus Camouflage Response.

• What you need: clear tank with varied backgrounds.
• Tip / How to choose: switch backgrounds slowly.
• Example observation: time to change color.
• Benefits: predator avoidance.

63. Clownfish Anemone Preference.

• What you need: two anemone species in tank.
• Tip / How to choose: equal light and temperature.
• Example observation: time spent in each anemone.
• Benefits: symbiosis behavior.

64. Seahorse Male Brooding.

• What you need: seahorse aquarium, video camera.
• Tip / How to choose: record daily.
• Example observation: pouch changes over time.
• Benefits: unique parenting.

65. Shark Feeding Frenzy Triggers.

• What you need: bait, underwater camera.
• Tip / How to choose: safe distance.
• Example observation: number of sharks arriving.
• Benefits: stimulus response.

66. Sea Turtle Nesting Site Choice.

• What you need: beach survey tools.
• Tip / How to choose: moon phase control.
• Example observation: nest locations vs. tide line.
• Benefits: reproductive strategy.

67. Starfish Regeneration Behavior.

• What you need: starfish specimens, petri dishes.
• Tip / How to choose: use small arms.
• Example observation: days to regrow arm tip.
• Benefits: healing mechanisms.

68. Dolphin Vocalization Patterns.

• What you need: hydrophone, recorder.
• Tip / How to choose: record during social play.
• Example observation: whistle types.
• Benefits: marine communication.

69. Crab Territorial Displays.

• What you need: shallow tank, two crabs.
• Tip / How to choose: similar size.
• Example observation: wave counts.
• Benefits: conflict resolution.

70. Jellyfish Pulsing Rate.

• What you need: aquarium, stopwatch.
• Tip / How to choose: steady temperature.
• Example observation: pulses per minute.
• Benefits: locomotion study.

71. Seal Vocal Learning.

• What you need: sanctuary access, audio recorder.
• Tip / How to choose: record pups and adults.
• Example observation: mimicry attempts.
• Benefits: learning in marine mammals.

72. Coral Polyp Feeding Response.

• What you need: coral fragments, plankton solution.
• Tip / How to choose: low water flow.
• Example observation: tentacle extension time.
• Benefits: feeding mechanics.

73. Penguin Waddle Efficiency.

• What you need: ruler, stopwatch.
• Tip / How to choose: flat icy surface.
• Example observation: time per meter.
• Benefits: energy saving gait.

74. Sea Otter Rafting Behavior.

• What you need: kayak, binoculars.
• Tip / How to choose: calm water days.
• Example observation: number in raft.
• Benefits: group resting.

75. Moray Eel Hunting Strategy.

• What you need: reef access, underwater cam.
• Tip / How to choose: dawn or dusk.
• Example observation: ambush spots.
• Benefits: niche specialization.

76. Manta Ray Cleaning Stations.

• What you need: snorkeling gear, notebook.
• Tip / How to choose: map station locations.
• Example observation: cleaner species visits.
• Benefits: mutualism.

77. Fish School Shape Changes.

• What you need: drone or boat, video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: record predator approach.
• Example observation: school density variations.
• Benefits: predator avoidance.

78. Sea Urchin Grazing Patterns.

• What you need: tide pool, algae markers.
• Tip / How to choose: mark before low tide.
• Example observation: eaten patch size.
• Benefits: foraging strategy.

79. Walrus Haul-Out Site Choice.

• What you need: shore observation, map.
• Tip / How to choose: note ice cover.
• Example observation: counts per site.
• Benefits: thermal regulation.

80. Dolphin Bubble Ring Play.

• What you need: aquarium with dolphins.
• Tip / How to choose: record sessions.
• Example observation: ring creation count.
• Benefits: play and intelligence.

Reptile & Amphibian Behavior

81. Lizard Push-Up Displays.

• What you need: bearded dragon, video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: record at dawn.
• Example observation: push-ups per minute.
• Benefits: territorial signals.

82. Frog Calling vs. Humidity.

• What you need: audio recorder, hygrometer.
• Tip / How to choose: compare dry vs. wet nights.
• Example observation: calls per hour.
• Benefits: environmental triggers.

83. Tortoise Grazing Rates.

• What you need: grass plot, tortoise.
• Tip / How to choose: same plant type.
• Example observation: area eaten per hour.
• Benefits: diet analysis.

84. Snake Tongue-Flick Rate.

• What you need: corn snake, stopwatch.
• Tip / How to choose: present scent trails.
• Example observation: flicks per minute.
• Benefits: chemoreception study.

85. Salamander Shelter Choice.

• What you need: logs, rocks, boxes.
• Tip / How to choose: equal humidity zones.
• Example observation: preferred cover.
• Benefits: habitat preference.

86. Chameleon Color Change Speed.

• What you need: color cards, video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: quick card changes.
• Example observation: seconds to match.
• Benefits: camouflage efficiency.

87. Alligator Nest Protection.

• What you need: wildlife cam, nest site access.
• Tip / How to choose: safe viewing distance.
• Example observation: defensive postures.
• Benefits: maternal care.

88. Newt Courtship Dance.

• What you need: aquarium, partner pairs.
• Tip / How to choose: clean water.
• Example observation: ritual sequence.
• Benefits: mating rituals.

89. Iguana Head-Bobbing Frequency.

• What you need: iguana enclosure, stopwatch.
• Tip / How to choose: record peak activity times.
• Example observation: bobs per minute.
• Benefits: communication signals.

90. Toad Anti-Predator Inflation.

• What you need: stuffed predator model.
• Tip / How to choose: gentle approach.
• Example observation: time inflated.
• Benefits: defense strategy.

91. Gecko Adhesion Testing.

• What you need: glass surface, geckos.
• Tip / How to choose: vary inclination.
• Example observation: slip angle.
• Benefits: footpad mechanics.

92. Turtle Basking Duration.

• What you need: aquarium, heat lamp.
• Tip / How to choose: record hourly.
• Example observation: minutes per session.
• Benefits: thermoregulation.

93. Frog Prey Capture Accuracy.

• What you need: flies, enclosure.
• Tip / How to choose: vary distance.
• Example observation: hits vs. misses.
• Benefits: strike precision.

94. Snake Scent Trail Following.

• What you need: scent substrates, tools to lay trails.
• Tip / How to choose: fresh trails.
• Example observation: trail completion time.
• Benefits: navigation cues.

95. Salamander Limb Regrowth.

• What you need: ethical lab, tiny limb bud study.
• Tip / How to choose: consult ethics.
• Example observation: regrowth length per week.
• Benefits: regeneration study.

96. Chameleon Social Interaction.

• What you need: two chameleons separated by mesh.
• Tip / How to choose: avoid stress.
• Example observation: color display changes.
• Benefits: agonistic behavior.

97. Frog Jump Distance vs. Temperature.

• What you need: measuring tape, heating pad.
• Tip / How to choose: test multiple temps.
• Example observation: average jump length.
• Benefits: muscle function.

98. Tuatara Activity Cycle.

• What you need: field cam, New Zealand site.
• Tip / How to choose: long-term record.
• Example observation: active vs. rest periods.
• Benefits: reptile chronobiology.

99. Garter Snake Mate Choice.

• What you need: male and female pairs.
• Tip / How to choose: rotate partners.
• Example observation: courtship success rate.
• Benefits: sexual selection.

100. Axolotl Light Sensitivity.

• What you need: aquarium with light zones.
• Tip / How to choose: low intensity.
• Example observation: time spent in shade vs. light.
• Benefits: sensory behavior.

Domestic Animal Behavior

101. Chicken Pecking Order.

• What you need: small flock, pen.
• Tip / How to choose: mark individuals.
• Example observation: who pecks whom.
• Benefits: social hierarchy.

102. Cow Grazing Preference.

• What you need: two grass types.
• Tip / How to choose: equal plot size.
• Example observation: time per patch.
• Benefits: feed selection.

103. Sheep Flock Cohesion.

• What you need: open field, whistle.
• Tip / How to choose: vary call intervals.
• Example observation: regroup time.
• Benefits: herding behavior.

104. Pig Tool Use (sticks).

• What you need: sticks, food reward.
• Tip / How to choose: hide reward in tube.
• Example observation: tool manipulation.
• Benefits: problem solving.

105. Horse Response to Music.

• What you need: speakers, playlist.
• Tip / How to choose: test different tempos.
• Example observation: heart rate change.
• Benefits: emotional response.

106. Dog Social Greeting Rituals.

• What you need: two dogs meeting.
• Tip / How to choose: neutral environment.
• Example observation: sniff count.
• Benefits: canine communication.

107. Cat Territory Marking.

• What you need: paper sheets, marker.
• Tip / How to choose: place sheets on floor.
• Example observation: rub or spray spots.
• Benefits: scent marking.

108. Rabbit Thumping vs. Sound.

• What you need: speaker, quiet room.
• Tip / How to choose: vary volume.
• Example observation: thumps per sound.
• Benefits: alarm cues.

109. Guinea Pig Vocalization Types.

• What you need: audio recorder.
• Tip / How to choose: record during feeding.
• Example observation: squeak vs. purr count.
• Benefits: emotional expression.

110. Hamster Food Sorting.

• What you need: mixed seeds.
• Tip / How to choose: weigh before and after.
• Example observation: preferred seed type.
• Benefits: dietary choice.

111. Parrot Mimicry Speed.

• What you need: playback phrases, young birds.
• Tip / How to choose: repeat phrases daily.
• Example observation: days to mimic.
• Benefits: learning rate.

112. Goat Climbing Behavior.

• What you need: obstacle course.
• Tip / How to choose: safe heights.
• Example observation: time to summit.
• Benefits: agility study.

113. Ferret Tunnel Exploration.

• What you need: tubes, treats.
• Tip / How to choose: change layout.
• Example observation: path choices.
• Benefits: spatial mapping.

114. Budgie Social Interaction.

• What you need: two budgies, cage dividers.
• Tip / How to choose: see through mesh.
• Example observation: calls toward each other.
• Benefits: parrot social behavior.

115. Pigeon Homing Speed.

• What you need: release site, timer.
• Tip / How to choose: same location.
• Example observation: minutes to loft.
• Benefits: navigation skills.

116. Goat Grazing Bite Size.

• What you need: marked grass stems.
• Tip / How to choose: measure cut lengths.
• Example observation: average bite length.
• Benefits: feeding mechanics.

117. Chinchilla Dust Bath Duration.

• What you need: dust bath container.
• Tip / How to choose: fresh dust each trial.
• Example observation: minutes spent bathing.
• Benefits: grooming behavior.

118. Budgie Flight Space Use.

• What you need: aviary, perches.
• Tip / How to choose: map perch visits.
• Example observation: perch time per bird.
• Benefits: space preference.

119. Dog Problem-Solving Puzzle.

• What you need: treat puzzle.
• Tip / How to choose: moderate difficulty.
• Example observation: time to solve.
• Benefits: canine cognition.

120. Cat Hunting Play with Laser.

• What you need: laser pointer.
• Tip / How to choose: vary patterns.
• Example observation: chase duration.
• Benefits: predatory instincts.

Animal Communication

121. Elephant Infrasound Calls.

• What you need: low-frequency recorder.
• Tip / How to choose: record at dawn.
• Example observation: call durations.
• Benefits: long‑range communication.

122. Prairie Dog Dialects.

• What you need: recorder, field site.
• Tip / How to choose: different colonies.
• Example observation: call variations.
• Benefits: regional language.

123. Whale Song Regionality.

• What you need: hydrophone, boat.
• Tip / How to choose: same season each year.
• Example observation: song changes.
• Benefits: cultural transmission.

124. Bee Vibration Signals.

• What you need: vibration sensor on hive.
• Tip / How to choose: during swarming.
• Example observation: tremble counts.
• Benefits: hive alerts.

125. Dog Tail Wagging Direction.

• What you need: video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: novel vs. familiar stimuli.
• Example observation: left vs. right wag.
• Benefits: emotion indicators.

126. Cat Purring Intensity.

• What you need: decibel meter.
• Tip / How to choose: record while petting.
• Example observation: dB levels.
• Benefits: contentment measure.

127. Bird Song Learning in Chicks.

• What you need: playback of adult song.
• Tip / How to choose: critical learning period.
• Example observation: mimic accuracy.
• Benefits: vocal learning.

128. Dolphin Click Patterns.

• What you need: hydrophone.
• Tip / How to choose: during feeding.
• Example observation: click rates.
• Benefits: echolocation study.

129. Antennal Drumming in Termites.

• What you need: high‑speed camera.
• Tip / How to choose: record during alarm.
• Example observation: drum frequency.
• Benefits: insect signaling.

130. Cuttlefish Chromatic Signals.

• What you need: tank, lighting.
• Tip / How to choose: present rival.
• Example observation: color patterns.
• Benefits: visual communication.

131. Meerkat Alarm Call Context.

• What you need: audio recorder, dummy predator.
• Tip / How to choose: vary predator types.
• Example observation: call type vs. threat.
• Benefits: referential signaling.

132. Parrot Body Language.

• What you need: video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: record interactions.
• Example observation: crest raising.
• Benefits: non‑vocal cues.

133. Rattlesnake Rattle Rate.

• What you need: microphone.
• Tip / How to choose: safe distance.
• Example observation: rattles per minute.
• Benefits: warning signal intensity.

134. Horse Whinny Pitch Analysis.

• What you need: audio recorder, spectral software.
• Tip / How to choose: record greeting vs. alarm.
• Example observation: pitch differences.
• Benefits: emotional expression.

135. Wolf Howl Coordination.

• What you need: field recorder.
• Tip / How to choose: dawn chorus.
• Example observation: overlap times.
• Benefits: pack cohesion.

136. Bee Antenna Touch Signals.

• What you need: magnifier.
• Tip / How to choose: observe trophallaxis.
• Example observation: touch sequences.
• Benefits: food-sharing signals.

137. Chimpanzee Gestural Communication.

• What you need: video cam at sanctuary.
• Tip / How to choose: note context.
• Example observation: arm raise frequency.
• Benefits: gesture meanings.

138. Frog Visual Signaling (Head Bobbing).

• What you need: field cam.
• Tip / How to choose: mating season.
• Example observation: bob counts.
• Benefits: non‑vocal courtship.

139. Bee Buzz Pollination Signals.

• What you need: frequency meter on bees visiting flowers.
• Tip / How to choose: multiple flower types.
• Example observation: buzz frequency vs. pollen release.
• Benefits: plant–pollinator communication.

140. Octopus Arm Posture Signals.

• What you need: aquarium, video cam.
• Tip / How to choose: during tank introduction.
• Example observation: arm curl types.
• Benefits: threat displays.

Nocturnal & Diurnal Behavior

141. Owl Hunting Success at Night.

• What you need: night‑vision camera.
• Tip / How to choose: record several hours.
• Example observation: prey captures per hour.
• Benefits: nocturnal foraging.

142. Bat Emergence Timing.

• What you need: infrared cam at roost exit.
• Tip / How to choose: note sunset times.
• Example observation: minutes after sunset.
• Benefits: activity onset.

143. Diurnal Lizard Sunbathing.

• What you need: thermometer, ruler.
• Tip / How to choose: morning vs. afternoon.
• Example observation: basking length.
• Benefits: thermoregulation.

144. Night-Jar Vocal Activity.

• What you need: audio recorder overnight.
• Tip / How to choose: record around midnight.
• Example observation: calls per hour.
• Benefits: nocturnal communication.

145. Day-Night Foraging in Raccoons.

• What you need: motion sensor cam.
• Tip / How to choose: urban vs. rural site.
• Example observation: visits per quadrant.
• Benefits: urban wildlife adaptation.

146. Katydid Calling vs. Moon Phase.

• What you need: audio recorder, moon chart.
• Tip / How to choose: full vs. new moon.
• Example observation: call frequency.
• Benefits: environmental influence.

147. Sun vs. Moon Compass Use by Insects.

• What you need: tethered insects, light sources.
• Tip / How to choose: simulate sky.
• Example observation: flight direction consistency.
• Benefits: navigation mechanisms.

148. Nocturnal vs. Diurnal Pollinator Visits.

• What you need: camera on night‑blooming vs. day blooms.
• Tip / How to choose: same flower species.
• Example observation: visitor counts.
• Benefits: pollination timing.

149. Crepuscular Deer Movement.

• What you need: trail cams at dawn/dusk.
• Tip / How to choose: same locations.
• Example observation: passage counts.
• Benefits: peak activity periods.

150. Day‑Night Activity in Crickets.

• What you need: audio recorder 24 hr.
• Tip / How to choose: control temperature.
• Example observation: chirp patterns.
• Benefits: circadian rhythms.

151. Moth Phototaxis Intensity.

• What you need: light trap, count sheet.
• Tip / How to choose: full vs. quarter moon.
• Example observation: moth counts.
• Benefits: light attraction.

152. Diurnal Flower-Visiting by Butterflies.

• What you need: flowering plot, tally sheet.
• Tip / How to choose: record each hour.
• Example observation: visits per species.
• Benefits: daytime pollination.

153. Nighttime Amphibian Road Crossings.

• What you need: roadside survey, flashlight.
• Tip / How to choose: rainy vs. dry nights.
• Example observation: crossing counts.
• Benefits: migration cues.

154. Sunset Roosting in Bats.

• What you need: binoculars, dusk watch.
• Tip / How to choose: note temperature.
• Example observation: entry times.
• Benefits: roost selection.

155. Diurnal vs. Nocturnal Prayer Behavior in Insects.

• What you need: praying mantis, night‑vision, daylight cam.
• Tip / How to choose: record same individual.
• Example observation: hunting success.
• Benefits: time-of-day effects.

156. Cockroach Shelter Use Day vs. Night.

• What you need: arena with hideouts.
• Tip / How to choose: light on/off cycles.
• Example observation: time outside refuge.
• Benefits: photophobia.

157. Sun Compass Calibration in Birds.

• What you need: release cage, sun position chart.
• Tip / How to choose: record at different solar times.
• Example observation: flight orientation.
• Benefits: orienting behavior.

158. Nighttime Feeding in Rodents.

• What you need: food tray, infrared cam.
• Tip / How to choose: grain vs. seed.
• Example observation: visits per night.
• Benefits: nocturnal diet preferences.

159. Diurnal Vocal Activity in Frogs.

• What you need: audio recorder at day.
• Tip / How to choose: hot vs. cool days.
• Example observation: call rates.
• Benefits: day calling strategies.

160. Crepuscular Spider Web Repair.

• What you need: marked webs, time‑lapse cam.
• Tip / How to choose: disturb webs slightly.
• Example observation: repair time at dawn/dusk.
• Benefits: energy budgeting.

Social & Group Behavior

161. Meerkat Sentinel Duty.

• What you need: field cam in desert site.
• Tip / How to choose: record entire group.
• Example observation: sentinel rotation frequency.
• Benefits: cooperative vigilance.

162. Ant Bridge Building.

• What you need: gap simulator, ant colony.
• Tip / How to choose: adjust gap width.
• Example observation: time to cross safely.
• Benefits: collective problem solving.

163. Wolf Pack Hunting Roles.

• What you need: wildlife footage, notebook.
• Tip / How to choose: identify individuals.
• Example observation: chaser vs. ambusher roles.
• Benefits: division of labor.

164. Fish School Response to Threat.

• What you need: predator model in tank.
• Tip / How to choose: safe simulation.
• Example observation: school tightness change.
• Benefits: group defense.

165. Primate Alliance Formation.

• What you need: sanctuary access, long-term observation.
• Tip / How to choose: focus on grooming.
• Example observation: support in conflicts.
• Benefits: social bonds.

166. Bee Forager Recruitment.

• What you need: marked flowers, hive.
• Tip / How to choose: remove some food sources.
• Example observation: dance vs. recruits.
• Benefits: resource sharing.

167. Bird Flock Decision Making.

• What you need: open field, drone cam.
• Tip / How to choose: novel obstacle.
• Example observation: leading changes.
• Benefits: consensus dynamics.

168. Elephant Matriarch Leadership.

• What you need: reserve vehicle, GIS.
• Tip / How to choose: track family groups.
• Example observation: path choices.
• Benefits: leadership influence.

169. Penguin Chick Crèche Behavior.

• What you need: colony cam.
• Tip / How to choose: breeding season.
• Example observation: chick grouping.
• Benefits: chick survival strategies.

170. Fish Hierarchy in Aquaria.

• What you need: several fish species.
• Tip / How to choose: similar sizes.
• Example observation: chasing events.
• Benefits: pecking order.

171. Lion Coalition Hunting.

• What you need: safari footage.
• Tip / How to choose: record pride hunts.
• Example observation: role distribution.
• Benefits: cooperative predation.

172. Monarch Butterfly Roosting Clusters.

• What you need: migration site, camera.
• Tip / How to choose: early morning.
• Example observation: cluster density.
• Benefits: thermoregulation in groups.

173. Macaque Social Grooming Networks.

• What you need: troop observation, social network software.
• Tip / How to choose: map interactions.
• Example observation: grooming frequency.
• Benefits: network analysis.

174. Termite Reproductive Caste Interaction.

• What you need: lab colony.
• Tip / How to choose: isolate castes.
• Example observation: feeding by workers.
• Benefits: division of labor.

175. Starling Murmurations Dynamics.

• What you need: open sky, camera.
• Tip / How to choose: pre-roost period.
• Example observation: shape change rates.
• Benefits: emergent patterns.

176. Dolphin Group Hunting Strategies.

• What you need: boat, video cams.
• Tip / How to choose: follow pods.
• Example observation: herding vs. corralling.
• Benefits: coordination.

177. Bee Guard Behavior at Hive Entrance.

• What you need: hive cam.
• Tip / How to choose: mark guards.
• Example observation: intruder inspections.
• Benefits: colony defense.

178. Meerkat Alarm Sharing Across Groups.

• What you need: playback calls to different clans.
• Tip / How to choose: measure response.
• Example observation: look-up vs. call rate.
• Benefits: intergroup communication.

179. Fish Cleaner Client Interactions.

• What you need: cleaner station, snorkel gear.
• Tip / How to choose: mark clients.
• Example observation: time cleaned.
• Benefits: mutual benefit in groups.

180. Prairie Dog Colony Division of Labor.

• What you need: burrow entrance cameras.
• Tip / How to choose: record all day.
• Example observation: sentinel vs. forager time.
• Benefits: role specialization.

Migration & Navigation

181. Monarch Butterfly Migration Timing.

• What you need: tagging kits, map.
• Tip / How to choose: tag early migrants.
• Example observation: travel dates.
• Benefits: migratory phenology.

182. Salmon Homing to Natal Stream.

• What you need: marking chemical, release site.
• Tip / How to choose: sample returns.
• Example observation: percentage return.
• Benefits: olfactory navigation.

183. Homing Pigeon Path Homing.

• What you need: GPS trackers.
• Tip / How to choose: various distances.
• Example observation: route deviations.
• Benefits: map learning.

184. Wildebeest Migration Corridor Use.

• What you need: satellite imagery, field surveys.
• Tip / How to choose: rainy vs. dry season.
• Example observation: herd density maps.
• Benefits: habitat connectivity.

185. Arctic Tern Long‑Distance Travel.

• What you need: geolocators.
• Tip / How to choose: attach before migration.
• Example observation: distance per day.
• Benefits: endurance in birds.

186. Salp Bloom Movement.

• What you need: water sampling nets.
• Tip / How to choose: plankton counts en route.
• Example observation: bloom density changes.
• Benefits: ocean currents tracking.

187. Caribou Herd Navigation Landmarks.

• What you need: GPS collars, GIS data.
• Tip / How to choose: record key passes.
• Example observation: landmark-based turns.
• Benefits: spatial memory.

188. Leatherback Turtle Oceanic Routes.

• What you need: satellite tags.
• Tip / How to choose: tag nesting females.
• Example observation: migration paths.
• Benefits: marine navigation.

189. Salmon Smolt River Descent Timing.

• What you need: smolt traps, flow records.
• Tip / How to choose: measure daily.
• Example observation: smolts per hour.
• Benefits: migration triggers.

190. Butterfly Compass Use in Clouds.

• What you need: flight simulator tunnel.
• Tip / How to choose: remove sun cue.
• Example observation: flight direction.
• Benefits: innate orientation.

191. Wildebeest Avoidance of Drought Zones.

• What you need: water point maps, GPS collars.
• Tip / How to choose: dry vs. wet years.
• Example observation: route shifts.
• Benefits: drought response.

192. Dragonfly Long‑Distance Migration.

• What you need: radar tracking, field nets.
• Tip / How to choose: tag mid‑migration.
• Example observation: flight altitudes.
• Benefits: insect migratory behavior.

193. Pacific Salmon Upstream Navigation.

• What you need: flow meters, PIT tags.
• Tip / How to choose: varied flows.
• Example observation: upstream speed.
• Benefits: flow cue use.

194. Arctic Caribou Calving Grounds Return.

• What you need: aerial surveys.
• Tip / How to choose: compare years.
• Example observation: calving site fidelity.
• Benefits: natal homing.

195. Eel Oceanic Journey Tracking.

• What you need: satellite tags for eels.
• Tip / How to choose: tag silver eels.
• Example observation: migration depth.
• Benefits: catadromous navigation.

196. Salmon Smolt Imprinting Window.

• What you need: controlled rearing tanks.
• Tip / How to choose: expose at different ages.
• Example observation: return success rates.
• Benefits: imprinting timing.

197. Turkey Vulture Thermal Soaring Paths.

• What you need: GPS trackers.
• Tip / How to choose: record thermals.
• Example observation: circling altitudes.
• Benefits: energy saving flight.

198. Bar-Tailed Godwit Non‑Stop Flight.

• What you need: satellite tags.
• Tip / How to choose: tag before departure.
• Example observation: flight duration.
• Benefits: endurance limits.

199. Monarch Butterfly Multi‑Generational Migration.

• What you need: tagging multiple generations.
• Tip / How to choose: track cohort by cohort.
• Example observation: generational travel distances.
• Benefits: generational navigation.

200. Barn Swallow Return Timing.

• What you need: nest box monitors.
• Tip / How to choose: record first arrivals.
• Example observation: compare years.
• Benefits: climate-linked phenology.

Behavioral Ecology

201. Predator Inspection in Fish.

• What you need: small tank, model predator.
• Tip / How to choose: use non‑threatening model.
• Example observation: number of inspection approaches.
• Benefits: risk assessment behavior.

202. Density-Dependent Foraging in Snails.

• What you need: two enclosures with different snail counts.
• Tip / How to choose: same food supply.
• Example observation: feeding rate per snail.
• Benefits: competition effects.

203. Optimal Patch Use by Birds.

• What you need: two feeding patches with seeds.
• Tip / How to choose: vary seed density.
• Example observation: time spent at each patch.
• Benefits: foraging decision rules.

204. Territory Size vs. Resource in Rodents.

• What you need: marked field area, tracking rodents.
• Tip / How to choose: map food locations.
• Example observation: home‑range boundaries.
• Benefits: habitat use.

205. Dominance Effects on Feeding Order in Chickens.

• What you need: flock, single feeder.
• Tip / How to choose: observe at mealtime.
• Example observation: order individuals feed.
• Benefits: social rank influence.

206. Energetic Cost of Alarm Calls in Prairie Dogs.

• What you need: audio recorder, behavioural log.
• Tip / How to choose: record call vs. rest periods.
• Example observation: distance moved after calling.
• Benefits: trade‑off study.

207. Foraging Trail Length vs. Reward in Ants.

• What you need: trail arena, sugar reward at varying distances.
• Tip / How to choose: keep concentration equal.
• Example observation: number reaching reward.
• Benefits: cost‑benefit decisions.

208. Parental Investment vs. Brood Size in Birds.

• What you need: nest boxes with different clutch sizes.
• Tip / How to choose: simulate extra eggs.
• Example observation: feeding visits per chick.
• Benefits: energy allocation.

209. Sexual Selection via Ornamentation in Fish.

• What you need: two male color variants, female choice tank.
• Tip / How to choose: equal male size.
• Example observation: time females spend near each.
• Benefits: mate choice cues.

210. Predator Density Effects on Group Size in Fish.

• What you need: tanks with different predator models.
• Tip / How to choose: equal prey density.
• Example observation: school size changes.
• Benefits: antipredator grouping.

211. Risky Foraging under Cover vs. Open in Small Mammals.

• What you need: arena with shelter and open area.
• Tip / How to choose: same food at both spots.
• Example observation: visits under cover.
• Benefits: risk trade‑off.

212. Leaf-Mining Insect Ovulation Site Choice.

• What you need: two leaf species, adult insects.
• Tip / How to choose: same leaf age.
• Example observation: eggs laid per leaf.
• Benefits: host selection.

213. Flower Sonication in Bees (“Buzz Pollination”).

• What you need: flowers requiring vibration, bees.
• Tip / How to choose: record visit force.
• Example observation: vibration frequency.
• Benefits: pollination technique.

214. Foraging Trail Memory in Ants.

• What you need: maze with food, ants.
• Tip / How to choose: change maze after first run.
• Example observation: route efficiency.
• Benefits: spatial memory study.

215. Shrimp Cleaning Station Regulation by Client Fish.

• What you need: aquarium with cleaner shrimp.
• Tip / How to choose: vary client size.
• Example observation: shrimp response time.
• Benefits: mutualism control.

216. Bat Roost Switching vs. Parasite Load.

• What you need: bat boxes, parasite counts.
• Tip / How to choose: monitor monthly.
• Example observation: switch frequency.
• Benefits: disease avoidance.

217. Sunflower Head Orientation by Pollinators.

• What you need: potted sunflowers, pollinator cage.
• Tip / How to choose: move light source.
• Example observation: head angle change.
• Benefits: pollinator attraction.

218. Reproductive Suppression in Vampire Bats.

• What you need: colony observation, reproductive status logs.
• Tip / How to choose: note age classes.
• Example observation: birth rates.
• Benefits: social regulation.

219. Foraging Specialization in Ant Subcolonies.

• What you need: large colony, marked subgroups.
• Tip / How to choose: track foraging tasks.
• Example observation: food type preference.
• Benefits: division of labor.

220. Migration Trigger by Day Length in Monarchs.

• What you need: light‑controlled chambers.
• Tip / How to choose: simulate day lengths.
• Example observation: restlessness onset.
• Benefits: photoperiod effects.

Cognitive & Learning Behavior

221. Mirror Self‑Recognition in Magpies.

• What you need: mirror, harmless mark on bird.
• Tip / How to choose: control no‑mirror trials.
• Example observation: touching marked area.
• Benefits: self‑awareness evidence.

222. Spatial Learning in Hermit Crabs.

• What you need: maze with shells, crabs.
• Tip / How to choose: offer preferred shell at exit.
• Example observation: path choices.
• Benefits: cognitive mapping.

223. Tool-Use Learning in Crows.

• What you need: puzzle with stick‑retrievable food.
• Tip / How to choose: moderate difficulty.
• Example observation: time to first success.
• Benefits: problem solving.

224. Song Imitation Accuracy in Mockingbirds.

• What you need: playback recordings of other species.
• Tip / How to choose: record juveniles.
• Example observation: similarity score.
• Benefits: vocal learning.

225. Concept Learning in Pigeons (Same vs. Different).

• What you need: two symbol cards, food reward.
• Tip / How to choose: randomize pairs.
• Example observation: correct pecks.
• Benefits: abstract concept formation.

226. Social Learning of Food Preferences in Rats.

• What you need: demonstrator rat fed novel food, observer rat.
• Tip / How to choose: allow scent transfer.
• Example observation: observer’s diet choice.
• Benefits: cultural transmission.

227. Numerical Ability in Spiders (Prey Counting).

• What you need: two prey clusters, spider.
• Tip / How to choose: cluster size difference small.
• Example observation: attack order.
• Benefits: numerical cognition.

228. Retention of Learned Fear in Frogs.

• What you need: harmless predator model, training trials.
• Tip / How to choose: test days after training.
• Example observation: avoidance time.
• Benefits: memory retention.

229. Social Transmission of Alarm Calls in Meerkats.

• What you need: playback of alarm calls to naïve pups.
• Tip / How to choose: control non‑alarm sounds.
• Example observation: pup response.
• Benefits: learning communication.

230. Color Discrimination Learning in Fish.

• What you need: colored plates, food reward.
• Tip / How to choose: randomize colors.
• Example observation: correct choice rate.
• Benefits: visual learning.

231. Object Permanence in Puppies.

• What you need: treat under cup, puppy.
• Tip / How to choose: vary delay before search.
• Example observation: find success.
• Benefits: cognitive development.

232. Delayed Gratification in Chimpanzees.

• What you need: small vs. large reward, timer.
• Tip / How to choose: clear signal of wait.
• Example observation: wait duration.
• Benefits: impulse control.

233. Spatial Memory in Squirrels (Nut Cache).

• What you need: buried nuts in grid, squirrels.
• Tip / How to choose: mark grid discreetly.
• Example observation: cache retrieval rate.
• Benefits: memory mapping.

234. Problem Solving in Octopuses (Puzzle Box).

• What you need: box requiring latch removal.
• Tip / How to choose: safe for animal.
• Example observation: steps to open.
• Benefits: invertebrate cognition.

235. Imitation Learning in Parrots.

• What you need: model performing simple task, parrot observer.
• Tip / How to choose: clear view of model.
• Example observation: number of correct copies.
• Benefits: social learning.

236. Categorization Ability in Bees (Shapes).

• What you need: shapes on platform, sugar reward.
• Tip / How to choose: test with novel shapes.
• Example observation: correct visits.
• Benefits: concept learning.

237. Tool Modification by New Caledonian Crows.

• What you need: wire pieces, food container.
• Tip / How to choose: supply raw materials.
• Example observation: bending frequency.
• Benefits: innovation study.

238. Memory Retention of Route in Homing Pigeons.

• What you need: GPS tracker.
• Tip / How to choose: repeat flights.
• Example observation: route fidelity.
• Benefits: long‑term memory.

239. Learned Avoidance in Mice (Light Shock).

• What you need: light cue, mild shock (ethical permits).
• Tip / How to choose: minimal intensity.
• Example observation: avoidance latency.
• Benefits: associative learning.

240. Mirror Test in Dolphins (Self‑Recognition).

• What you need: underwater mirror.
• Tip / How to choose: mark dorsal fin.
• Example observation: inspection behaviors.
• Benefits: self-awareness in cetaceans.

Environmental Influence Behavior

241. Temperature Effects on Lizard Activity.

• What you need: heat lamps, lizards.
• Tip / How to choose: test multiple temps.
• Example observation: time moving per hour.
• Benefits: thermal biology.

242. Noise Pollution Impact on Bird Song.

• What you need: audio recorder, playback of traffic.
• Tip / How to choose: compare quiet vs. noisy sites.
• Example observation: song amplitude.
• Benefits: anthropogenic effects.

243. Light Pollution Influence on Insect Flight.

• What you need: light traps at different intensities.
• Tip / How to choose: urban vs. rural.
• Example observation: insect counts.
• Benefits: urban ecology.

244. Water Quality Effects on Fish Schooling.

• What you need: tanks with varied turbidity.
• Tip / How to choose: equal fish density.
• Example observation: school cohesion.
• Benefits: pollution impacts.

245. Urban Heat Island Effects on Bee Foraging.

• What you need: foraging trays in city vs. park.
• Tip / How to choose: same floral reward.
• Example observation: visitation rates.
• Benefits: climate adaptation.

246. CO₂ Levels Impact on Ant Activity.

• What you need: sealed arenas, CO₂ meter.
• Tip / How to choose: sub‑lethal levels.
• Example observation: trail formation speed.
• Benefits: respiratory stress.

247. Salinity Effects on Crab Behavior.

• What you need: tanks with different salinity.
• Tip / How to choose: gradual changes.
• Example observation: activity levels.
• Benefits: osmoregulation behavior.

248. Drought Influence on Frog Calling.

• What you need: recorders at ponds.
• Tip / How to choose: wet vs. dry seasons.
• Example observation: call frequency.
• Benefits: environmental stress response.

249. Air Quality Impact on Bird Nesting Success.

• What you need: nests near roads vs. forests.
• Tip / How to choose: measure particulate levels.
• Example observation: hatchling counts.
• Benefits: pollution ecology.

250. Rainfall Effects on Earthworm Surface Activity.

• What you need: soil plots, count sheet.
• Tip / How to choose: before vs. after rain.
• Example observation: surface worm counts.
• Benefits: moisture-driven behavior.

251. Tidal Cycle Influence on Crustacean Feeding.

• What you need: intertidal zone, count quadrats.
• Tip / How to choose: low vs. high tide.
• Example observation: feeding marks.
• Benefits: rhythmic behavior.

252. Wind Speed Effects on Bird Flight Path.

• What you need: anemometer, binoculars.
• Tip / How to choose: compare calm vs. windy days.
• Example observation: flight deviations.
• Benefits: flight energetics.

253. Forest Fragmentation Impact on Butterfly Movement.

• What you need: marked plots in continuous vs. fragmented forest.
• Tip / How to choose: track with gentle marks.
• Example observation: movement distance.
• Benefits: habitat fragmentation effects.

254. Algal Bloom Influence on Fish Schooling.

• What you need: pond sections with/without bloom.
• Tip / How to choose: matched depth.
• Example observation: school formation.
• Benefits: water quality behavior.

255. Urban Light at Night on Moth Navigation.

• What you need: light traps near streetlights vs. dark areas.
• Tip / How to choose: same moon phase.
• Example observation: trap captures.
• Benefits: disorientation study.

256. Pesticide Exposure Effects on Bee Learning.

• What you need: treated vs. untreated feeders.
• Tip / How to choose: sub‑lethal doses.
• Example observation: correct feeder visits.
• Benefits: sub‑acute toxicity.

257. Chemical Runoff Influence on Frog Tadpole Behavior.

• What you need: rearing tanks with runoff water.
• Tip / How to choose: measure concentration.
• Example observation: swimming activity.
• Benefits: ecotoxicology.

258. Acid Rain Impact on Snail Shell Repair.

• What you need: tanks with varied pH.
• Tip / How to choose: slow pH adjustment.
• Example observation: shell growth rates.
• Benefits: environmental stress.

259. Temperature Shifts Affecting Insect Development Timing.

• What you need: incubators at different temps, insect nymphs.
• Tip / How to choose: track moulting events.
• Example observation: days per instar.
• Benefits: developmental plasticity.

260. Noise Disturbance on Mammal Vigilance.

• What you need: playback of noise, field observation.
• Tip / How to choose: control silent periods.
• Example observation: scanning frequency.
• Benefits: stress behavior.

Species Interaction Behavior

261. Cleaner Fish Preference by Client Species.

• What you need: cleaning station tank with multiple fish clients.
• Tip / How to choose: equal client presence.
• Example observation: visits per client species.
• Benefits: mutualism specificity.

262. Ant–Aphid Mutualism Strength vs. Sugar Reward.

• What you need: ant colony, aphid colonies with different honeydew sugar levels.
• Tip / How to choose: measure honeydew sugar content.
• Example observation: attendance time.
• Benefits: reward-based partner choice.

263. Predator–Prey Co‑feeding in Fishes.

• What you need: predator model, prey fish, food.
• Tip / How to choose: safe simulation.
• Example observation: feeding rates together.
• Benefits: risk vs. reward trade‑off.

264. Commensalism Between Birds and Herbivores.

• What you need: open field with grazing animals.
• Tip / How to choose: identify bird species picking insects.
• Example observation: bird pick counts.
• Benefits: interspecies benefit.

265. Brood Parasitism Recognition in Cuckoo Hosts.

• What you need: host nests, model eggs.
• Tip / How to choose: vary egg patterns.
• Example observation: rejection rate.
• Benefits: recognition cues.

266. Competitive Exclusion in Lizards.

• What you need: two similar lizard species in large arena.
• Tip / How to choose: equal habitat features.
• Example observation: space use.
• Benefits: niche partitioning.

267. Fungal Infection Impact on Ant Social Behavior.

• What you need: infected vs. healthy ants.
• Tip / How to choose: track social contacts.
• Example observation: grooming gestures.
• Benefits: disease avoidance.

268. Bee–Flower Co‑adaptation in Landing Platform Shape.

• What you need: artificial flowers of different shapes.
• Tip / How to choose: equal nectar.
• Example observation: visit success rate.
• Benefits: morphology matching.

269. Fish Cleaner–Client Deception (Mimicry).

• What you need: mimic species vs. true cleaner in tank.
• Tip / How to choose: mark cleaners.
• Example observation: client hesitation.
• Benefits: evolutionary arms race.

270. Antagonistic Interaction Between Spiders and Ants.

• What you need: arena with both species.
• Tip / How to choose: similar sizes.
• Example observation: attack initiation.
• Benefits: inter‑taxon competition.

271. Parasitic Manipulation of Amphipod Behavior by Worms.

• What you need: infected vs. uninfected amphipods.
• Tip / How to choose: control environmental conditions.
• Example observation: phototaxis differences.
• Benefits: parasite‑host interaction.

272. Kleptoparasitism in Birds (Seagulls vs. Terns).

• What you need: feeding area, mixed species.
• Tip / How to choose: equal prey availability.
• Example observation: theft events.
• Benefits: opportunistic behavior.

273. Mutual Grooming Between Ungulates and Birds.

• What you need: field cam at watering hole.
• Tip / How to choose: note species pairs.
• Example observation: grooming durations.
• Benefits: cleaning mutualism.

274. Exploitation of Cleaner Shrimp by Predatory Fish.

• What you need: reef tank with predators, shrimp.
• Tip / How to choose: control predator hunger.
• Example observation: shrimp survival rate.
• Benefits: cost of mutualism.

275. Coevolution of Host Defense in Butterflies vs. Birds.

• What you need: model butterflies with varying wing patterns.
• Tip / How to choose: equal presentation time.
• Example observation: attack frequency.
• Benefits: aposematism study.

276. Social Parasites in Ant Colonies (Slave-Makers).

• What you need: colony pairs, slave-maker species.
• Tip / How to choose: safe separation.
• Example observation: raid success.
• Benefits: social exploitation.

277. Birds Using Mammal Dung Patches for Insects.

• What you need: dung piles, bird counts.
• Tip / How to choose: fresh vs. old dung.
• Example observation: bird visits.
• Benefits: opportunistic feeding.

278. Fish Predator Inspection by Individuals vs. Groups.

• What you need: predator model, fish school.
• Tip / How to choose: isolate individuals and groups.
• Example observation: inspection proximity.
• Benefits: safety in numbers.

279. Plant–Insect Chemical Signaling in Defense.

• What you need: plants with induced damage, predatory mites.
• Tip / How to choose: control damage level.
• Example observation: mite attraction.
• Benefits: indirect defense.

280. Brood Care by Helpers in Meerkats.

• What you need: group observation, marked helpers.
• Tip / How to choose: note helper age.
• Example observation: feeding events by helpers.
• Benefits: cooperative breeding.

Conservation‑Related Behavior

281. Fence Avoidance by Elephants.

• What you need: GPS‑collared elephants, fence maps.
• Tip / How to choose: compare active vs. inactive fences.
• Example observation: crossing attempts.
• Benefits: human–wildlife conflict mitigation.

282. Reintroduction Success via Habitat Selection in Wolves.

• What you need: released wolves with trackers.
• Tip / How to choose: varied release sites.
• Example observation: den site choice.
• Benefits: restoration ecology.

283. Sea Turtle Hatchling Orientation by Coastal Lights.

• What you need: light screens, hatchling release.
• Tip / How to choose: vary light intensities.
• Example observation: crawl direction.
• Benefits: light pollution control.

284. Urban Green Space Use by Foxes.

• What you need: camera traps in parks.
• Tip / How to choose: compare daytime vs. night.
• Example observation: visit frequency.
• Benefits: urban wildlife management.

285. Captive Breeding Scripted Behaviors in Birds.

• What you need: bred vs. wild birds in aviary.
• Tip / How to choose: simulate natural cues.
• Example observation: courtship displays.
• Benefits: rewilding success.

286. Fish Passage Use by Salmon at Dams.

• What you need: sonar counts, fish ladder observations.
• Tip / How to choose: peak migration times.
• Example observation: ladder entries.
• Benefits: fish conservation structures.

287. Impact of Ecotourism Disturbance on Dolphin Behavior.

• What you need: tour boat presence vs. control.
• Tip / How to choose: measure approach distance.
• Example observation: dive times.
• Benefits: sustainable tourism.

288. Artificial Nest Box Acceptance by Swifts.

• What you need: boxes with varied designs.
• Tip / How to choose: different entrance sizes.
• Example observation: occupancy rates.
• Benefits: nest site supplementation.

289. Road Mitigation Tunnel Use by Amphibians.

• What you need: pitfall arrays near tunnels.
• Tip / How to choose: monitor rain nights.
• Example observation: crossing counts.
• Benefits: roadkill reduction.

290. Behavioural Adaptation of Urban Raccoons to Humans.

• What you need: bait stations in urban areas.
• Tip / How to choose: vary human presence.
• Example observation: approach latency.
• Benefits: urban adaptation strategies.

291. Coral Reef Fish Cleanup by Marine Protected Areas.

• What you need: diver surveys inside/outside MPA.
• Tip / How to choose: same reef types.
• Example observation: cleaner fish abundance.
• Benefits: MPA effectiveness.

292. Artificial Light Effects on Sea Urchin Feeding in Protected Bays.

• What you need: submersible lights on/off trials.
• Tip / How to choose: match tidal conditions.
• Example observation: grazing marks.
• Benefits: light management in MPAs.

293. Behavioral Enrichment Impact on Zoo‑Held Primates.

• What you need: enrichment devices vs. controls.
• Tip / How to choose: rotate devices.
• Example observation: play vs. inactivity time.
• Benefits: welfare improvement.

294. Flight Initiation Distance of Shorebirds to Humans.

• What you need: approach trials at varying speeds.
• Tip / How to choose: calm weather.
• Example observation: take‑off distance.
• Benefits: buffer zone guidelines.

295. Breeding Success of Penguins in Visitor‑Accessible Colonies.

• What you need: nests near and away from paths.
• Tip / How to choose: match nest density.
• Example observation: chick survival.
• Benefits: tourism impact.

296. Migration Timing Shifts with Climate Change in Geese.

• What you need: long-term arrival records.
• Tip / How to choose: compare decades.
• Example observation: arrival date trends.
• Benefits: phenological monitoring.

297. Nest Predation Rates at Different Fences for Ground‑Nest Birds.

• What you need: artificial nests protected by varied fences.
• Tip / How to choose: equal spacing.
• Example observation: predation events.
• Benefits: nest protection design.

298. Behavioral Response of Sea Lions to Acoustic Deterrents.

• What you need: underwater speakers, deterrent sounds.
• Tip / How to choose: vary frequencies.
• Example observation: time spent in zone.
• Benefits: non‑lethal management.

299. Rewilding Carnivore Prey Choice in Release Sites.

• What you need: scat analysis before and after release.
• Tip / How to choose: regular sampling.
• Example observation: prey species frequency.
• Benefits: prey adaptation.

300. Adaptive Response of Urban Birds to Novel Foods.

• What you need: feeding stations with new food items.
• Tip / How to choose: gradually introduce.
• Example observation: acceptance rate.
• Benefits: dietary flexibility.

What You Need

• Observation Tools: Notebook or journal, stopwatch, ruler or measuring tape.
• Recording Devices: Smartphone camera or recorder for photos and videos.
• Reference Materials: Field guides, research articles, or online databases.
• Data Sheets: Templates to log behaviors, times, and environmental conditions.
• Safety Gear: Gloves or masks if handling specimens, or binoculars for wildlife surveys.

Tips for a Successful Project

• Be Consistent: Observe at the same time each day to control for environmental changes.
• Stay Patient: Animals don’t follow schedules—be ready to wait quietly.
• Practice Non-Intrusion: Keep a respectful distance; your presence shouldn’t alter natural behavior.
• Record Immediately: Note observations as they happen to avoid forgetting details.
• Use Clear Codes: Develop shorthand or symbols to quickly jot down behaviors.
• Repeat Observations: Multiple sessions reduce bias and improve reliability.

Benefits of Doing This Project

• Hands-On Learning: Engage directly with live subjects rather than only reading about them.
• Critical Thinking: Form hypotheses, analyze results, and draw conclusions.
• Data Skills: Collecting and interpreting data prepares you for higher-level science.
• Environmental Awareness: Develop a deeper appreciation for animal welfare and ecosystems.
• Academic Achievement: Projects can be entered in science fairs or published in school journals.

Structuring Your Project Report

1. Title Page
2. Abstract: Brief summary of purpose, methods, and findings.
3. Introduction: Background on the species and behavior studied.
4. Materials & Methods: List tools and describe your observation protocol.
5. Results: Present data with charts or tables.
6. Discussion: Interpret what the results mean and how they relate to existing studies.
7. Conclusion: Summarize key findings and suggest future work.
8. References: Cite any books, articles, or websites you used.

Must Read: 389+ Opinion Project Ideas: Benefits, Tips & How to Get Started

Conclusion

Animal behavior projects are both educational and fun. They help you develop research skills, deepen your understanding of the natural world, and contribute meaningful insights.

With the right preparation—choosing a focused question, gathering necessary tools, following ethical guidelines, and staying patient—you’ll be well on your way to a successful study. Happy observing!