Transcript – Avian Behavior, Physiology, and the Gut Microbiome

The digestive system of animals contains billions of microorganisms called the gut microbiome. These microbes communicate with the brain through several systems and can alter host behavior. Recent research has found changes in the microbiome can alter mate choice behavior in Drosophila and anxiety like behavior in mice. Our hypothesis is that the gut microbiome influences behavior through its interactions with the immune system. To test this hypothesis, we captured 45 house sparrows from the wild and brought them into captivity immediately after capture. We collected a fecal sample from each individual to measure the microbiome. We also measured the area of the male’s plumage bib as a proxy for dominance in their flock. We then individually placed the birds in a novel environment to measure their exploratory behavior. We measured the bird cell mediated immunity with a antigen assay. We then measured the birds’ latency to solve two different puzzles to get a food reward. Once all of these tests were completed, a second fecal sample was collected and the birds were released back into the wild. We are still analyzing the data, but our preliminary results demonstrate variation in the bird’s immune responses. Once the fecal samples are sequenced, we will examine the gut microbiomes relationship with immunity and behavior.