Summary: Paulisson (2008)

After long periods of training, lizards and snakes show spatial learning (an animal's ability to learn the location of resources for access in the future). It has been suggested that the natural environment is more conducive to spatial learning in squamates than the laboratory, as the animals become familiar with vital resources and landmarks within their home ranges. Paulisson (2008) hypothesised that spatial learning in little brown skinks (Scincella lateralis) can be improved with prior experience of a habitat. He subjected individual lizards to simulated predatory attacks and tested their ability a) to choose between 1 of 2 cardboard retreats (Experiment 1); 2) to choose a designated "correct" retreat without prior experience (Experiment 2); and 3) to choose the "correct" retreat after 48 hours of prior experience in the habitat (Experience 3). Paulisson (2008) found that little brown skinks learn to take refuge (Experiment 1), and experience leads them to choose the "correct" retreat in a short period of time (Experiment 3). He discusses the role of experience and the use of ecologically relevant landmarks in laboratory-based learning experiments.