Overview
The aye-aye is one of the world's most endangered animals Its unusual foraging behavior presents a provocative challenge to those interested in the evolution, development and sensory-motor coordination of complex behavior as well as to those concerned wi th the captive breeding of endangered species. The aye-aye hunts for woodboring insect larvae by tapping its middle finger on the surface of dead trees. When a cavity is detected, it uses its razor-sharp incisors to gnaw away the wood. Our studies have focused on the aye-aye's capacity to form representations of the subsurface cavities and to exploit them most efficiently. Because of our successful breeding program, Duke has the largest colony of captive-bred aye-ayes in the world. This program has allowed us a unique opportunity to study the early development of the aye-aye's complex behavior patterns. Ultimately, this research is critical to the reintroduction of this species to protected areas of Madagascar.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor Emeritus of Psychological and Brain Sciences
·
2004 - Present
Psychology & Neuroscience,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Recent Publications
"Strategic Tap-Scanning Behavior in the Aye-Aye"
Journal Article Daubentonia Madagascariensis · 2003 Cite"Mother-Infant Interation in the Aye-Aye"
Journal Article Daubentonia Madagascariensis · 2003 CiteCues for Prey Location by Aye-Aye
Journal Article Daubentonia Madagascariensis, Folia Pimatologica · 1998 CiteRecent Grants
Social Interaction and the Induction of Testicular Activity
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) · 1988 - 1989View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Rutgers University ·
1965
Ph.D.