Is it ethically appropriate to conduct studies on animals that have the objective to further our understanding of animal behaviour?The legal position is that such studies are in principle lawful. However, legislation is having increasing impact on studies of animal behaviour in the context of the UK legal framework provided by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. Animal behaviour studies are first considered by the relevant university animal welfare ethical review committee in the UK. Whilst non-invasive field studies of animal behaviour are typically given 'light touch' review, more stringent criteria are applied to laboratory-based experimental studies conducted within animal research facilities.In addition, such experimental studies may require Home Office Project Licence authority, if the procedures involved could cause pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm.
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