Article adapted from "Signals in the Wind, by Dietrich Burkhardt, et. al.

Discusses factors to consider when deciding on the kind of pet to obtain and keep in the classroom, indicating that when the pet is responsibly chosen, cared for, and integrated into the classroom, it can provide many positive learning opportunities for children. Several of these opportunities are outlined. (JN)

The neural networks of several invertebrate animals are currently being studied for clues to cerebral function. The major goal of the studies is an understanding of the neural mechanisms behind learning. Organisms used, examples of research studies, and implications are discussed. (Author/JN)

Compares the advantages of using chickens over rats in college-level introductory psychology lab courses. Chicks are cheaper, gentler, easier to handle, and require less time to adapt to laboratory conditions than rats. They are also easy to condition and impervious to distraction by room noise. (AM)

Reviews five natural history books for children and offers comments on a book about a marine biologist written for children. (HOD)

Describes the Monmouth County Park System's "Live Snakes Program" for schools and comments on popular misconceptions about snakes. (SJL)

Describes an animal laboratory course using male Siamese fighting fish which is inexpensive, compact, and permits students to conduct a wide variety of behavioral investigations. (Author/CK)

Attempts to define "creative categorization" using animal behavior and human perception as examples. (RK)

Describes some experiments with monkeys that "can provide us with vital and unexpected information about the organization of the human brain", according to Dr. James H. Dewson, a Stanford University scientist. (Editor/RK)

Responses from 176 of 420 4-H members involved in livestock projects showed they were able to accomplish skills in sportsmanship, safety, and animal grooming and selection but were less confident about animal health care. The sense of responsibility acquired from these projects was applied to homework, punctuality, and care for younger siblings.…

Argues that media representations of the animal kingdom can be erroneous. Illustrates that point using Albrecht Durer's drawing of a rhinoceros in 1515 that depicted the animal in a suit of medieval armor. Recants the argument after learning that the depiction is a fairly accurate account of the Indian rhinoceros. (MDH)

An environmental magazine answers 10 questions about wildlife that readers often write and ask. Questions address the behavior of animals and evolutionary reasons for biological adaptations suggested by research. (LZ)

The dendritic structure of layer II-III pyramidal neurons of the parietal cortex in 41 Long-Evans rats was compared to behavioral assessments of attention to novelty, response flexibility, and reasoning. A significant correlation between dendritic arborization and behavioral performance was not demonstrated. (SLD)

Tips are offered for use in an encounter with a dog guide and its blind owner. Tips include approaching the person from the right side, not taking hold of the dog guide's harness, not offering food to the dog guide, and not petting the dog guide without the owner's permission. (JDD)

Addresses irrational fears of snakes and how an understanding of snakes can alleviate this fear. For example, the survival methods of the Eastern Hognose snake, which inhabits upland hillsides and woodland meadows, include impersonating a cobra and playing dead. Although this snake looks and acts dangerous, it is quite harmless to humans. (LP)