The Dancing Mouse: A Study in Animal Behavior

"The Dancing Mouse: A Study in Animal Behavior" by Robert Mearns Yerkes is a scientific exploration of the unusual movements and reactions of dancing mice, creatures that fascinate scientists and animal lovers alike. The publication examines the source, physical makeup, and typical behaviors of these unique animals, while also touching on wider ideas about animal behavior and mental processes. Yerkes describes his initial observations of dancing mice at the Harvard Psychological Laboratory, which ignited his extensive study into their peculiar behaviors. He discusses questions about their senses, ability to learn, adaptation skills, and methods for studying their actions. Yerkes notes the absence of detailed writings about the dancing mouse, emphasizing his aim to add to both biological knowledge and comparative psychology. The opening effectively prepares the reader for a detailed investigation into the characteristics, domestic care, and behavior of the dancing mouse, making it critical for anyone with an interest in animal studies.