Irreversibility of imprinting after active versus passive exposure to the object.

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Abstract
Isolated ducklings were reared for 4 days with a hanging colored object (passive training). Half of the animals also received three 1-hr following sessions with the object (active training). Both groups chose the imprinting object in a simultaneous choice test administered on Day 5, but the preference of the active-trained birds was more robust than of passive-trained birds. Each animal was then reared with an object of a different color and shape. The preference for the 1st object was maintained in the active-trained ducklings but not in the passive-trained animals. These results were also found when the objects were removed from the cages for 14 days. Preferences established during the sensitive period for imprinting can be eliminated (but not necessarily reversed) in ducklings that are prevented from following the original object but they are resistant to change in ducklings given the following experience. A hypothesis is presented which emphasizes the importance of reafference and activation of brain stem pathways involved in following in the formation of specific affiliative bonds.

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