Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour

ASAB aims to further the understanding of animal behaviour at all educational levels and to promote animal welfare and conservation. We give grants to enable studies on the function, evolution, development and causation of behaviour, the results of which are widely reported. In particular, popular TV and radio programmes regularly use our members' work, as recognised by our patron, Sir David Attenborough.

We also produce a leading scientific journal and organise three scientific meetings each year so that the results of studies are disseminated to the scientific community. Throughout our work we insist on a strict adherence to ethical guidelines, aimed to minimise disturbance to animals and to protect rare species or populations. Other associations are following our lead.

We encourage the study of animal behaviour at primary/secondary and tertiary level, believing that such studies help develop numerous skills as well as an appreciation of the natural world and the remarkable capabilities of animals. A key aim is to instill an awareness of welfare issues in our audience. To this end we have jointly produced educational videos that are shown widely in UK schools and increasingly so in other countries.

Understanding animal behaviour is important for conservation, improving welfare, an appreciation of the myriad of interactions within the natural world and of our own capabilities. We would be grateful for any support in the form of donations, covenants or legacies to help us maintain and enhance our activities.