The term natural behavior refers to actions that are inherent to each organism and species. These behaviors can range from the fascinating and abstract—such as bat echolocation—to the seemingly mundane, like responding when someone speaks. Regardless of how complex or simple they may appear, natural behaviors have been shaped by evolution to serve specific functions that enhance a species' success in its natural environment. But how are these behaviors implemented and controlled? In this seminar series, students will be introduced to Neuroethology—the branch of science that investigates the neural mechanisms underlying natural behaviors across species. We will explore topics that span from the activity of individual neurons to large-scale brain networks, examining how patterns of neural activity give rise to and coordinate natural behaviors. close