Lateralization in Non-Human Animals

The video explores the concept of handedness, or lateralization, across various species, including humans, dogs, cats, great apes, marsupials, whales, and octopuses. It highlights how different species exhibit preferences for one side of their body over the other, often depending on the task or environment. The video also discusses the challenges of studying handedness in animals and the insights gained from such research. Additionally, it includes a sponsorship message from LMNT.

What is the term used to describe a preference for one side of the body over the other?

• Bilateralism

• Symmetry

• Lateralization

• Ambidexterity

In studies of dogs, what percentage showed a preference for one paw over the other?

• 75%

• 100%

• 50%

• 25%

Which gender of cats is more likely to be left-pawed?

• Female cats

• Male cats

• Neither

• Both equally

Which great ape species showed right hand dominance at a population level?

• All of the above

• Chimpanzees

• Orangutans

• Gorillas

What factor influences handedness in marsupials like kangaroos?

• Posture

• Color

• Diet

• Climate

Which side do blue whales prefer to roll when feeding near the surface?

• Neither

• Both equally

• Left

• Right

What is the preferred arm for California two-spot octopuses when snagging prey?

• Second arm from the middle

• First arm from the middle

• Third arm from the middle

• Fourth arm from the middle

What percentage of humpback whales showed a preference for one side of their mouth?

• 50%

• 60%

• 70%

• 80%

What is the main reason octopuses approach their prey from one side?

• To conserve energy

• To communicate with other octopuses

• To get a better view

• To avoid predators

What is the main challenge in studying lateralization in non-human animals?

• Lack of interest

• Ethical concerns

• Small sample sizes

• High costs