Protean Behaviour: The Biology of Unpredictability

Driver, P. M.; Humphries, D. A.

ISBN 10: 0198571704 / ISBN 13: 9780198571704

Published by Oxford University Press, 1988

About this Item

A copy that has been read, remains in good condition. All pages are intact, and the cover is intact. The spine and cover show signs of wear. Pages can include notes and highlighting and show signs of wear, and the copy can include "From the library of" labels or previous owner inscriptions. 100% GUARANTEE! Shipped with delivery confirmation, if you're not satisfied with purchase please return item! Ships via media mail.

Seller Inventory # OTV.0198571704.G

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Protean Behaviour: The Biology of Unpredictability
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication Date: 1988
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198571704
• ISBN 13: 9780198571704
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: good

About this title

Synopsis

The result of twenty-five years of research, this highly original book explores the problem of unpredictable or protean behavior as it is commonly observed in wildlife. How can randomness be of advantage to an animal? The authors describe, classify, and analyze a variety of animal behaviors, showing that apparent randomness is, upon closer scrutiny, only unpredictable enough to confuse the animal's enemies. Thus, seemingly erratic behavior is truly to an advantage. The authors establish the concept of "systematic unpredictability", and discuss evolutionary aspects of the phenomenon and its wider implications--beyond simple escape movements of prey and "crazy dances" of predators. This fascinating book will bring new insights into many aspects of behavioral science, natural history, biology, and psychology.