Natural conditions and adaptive functions of problem-solving in the Carnivora

Abstract

Physical problem-solving paradigms are popular for testing a variety of cognitive abilities linked with intelligence including behavioral flexibility, innovation, and learning. Members of the mammalian order Carnivora are excellent candidates for studying problem-solving because they occupy a diverse array of socio-ecological niches, allowing researchers to test competing hypotheses on the evolution of intelligence. Recent developments in the design of problem-solving apparatuses have enhanced our ability to detect inter-specific and intra- specific variation in problem-solving success in captive and wild carnivores. These studies suggest there may be some links between variation in problem-solving success and variation in urbanization, diet, and sociality.