Discrimination-reversal learning in kangaroos

Abstract

Three kangaroos learned to discriminate horizontal versus vertical black and white stripes and to reverse the habit repeatedly. The course of original learning was similar to that usually observed in other vertebrates. Response to the first reversal was also similar to that usually observed in that there was marked habit interference and behavioural disturbance. The rapidity with which the first reversal was learned was not greater than that observed in other mammals. Two kangaroos showed some improvement as reversals continued, but there was no evidence that they had developed a learning set. The observed improvement could have come from general adaptation to the experimental situation.