Spatial Preference Behavior of Robo-pigeons Induced by Electrical Stimulus Targeting Fear Nuclei

Background: Numerous studies have confirmed that stimulating the mid-brain motor nuclei can regulate movement forcibly for robo-pigeons, but research on behavior modulation using non-motor nuclei is scarce.

Objective: In this study, we constructed a spatial preference behavior by stimulating the stratum griseum periventriculare (SGP), a nucleus correlated with fear and escape, for robo-pigeons.

Methods: The study was carried out in a square-enclosed experimental field, with a designated box serving as the 'safe' area for the robo-pigeons. If the robo-pigeon exits this area, the SGP will be stimulated. After a brief training period, the robo-pigeons will have a clear spatial preference for the box.

Results: The result from five pigeons has shown that, after simple training, the animals develop a spatial preference for the box. They can quickly return to the box in any situation when the SGP is stimulated, with a success rate exceeding 80% (89.0 ± 6.5%). Moreover, this behavior is highly stable and remains consistent, unaffected by changes in the location of the box or the interference box.

Conclusion: The results prove that using the electrical stimulus could enable animals to accomplish more complex tasks. It may offer a novel approach to regulating pigeon behavior and further advance the study of cyborg animals.