Mapping Animal Cultures: The Animal Culture Database (ACDB)

Socially transmitted behaviors are widespread across the animal kingdom, yet comprehensive datasets documenting their distribution and ecological significance remain scarce. Additionally, knowledge of animal behavioral traditions could be essential for understanding many species’ responses to anthropogenic disturbances and further enhancing conservation efforts. Here, we introduce the first open-access database that synthesizes data on animal cultural behaviors and traditions. The Animal Culture Database (ACDB) summarizes culture-related features for a total of 56 species. The current release of the database contains descriptions of 112 behaviors including forms of vocal communication, migration, predator defense, foraging practices, habitat alteration, play, mating displays, and other social behaviors for 102 bird and mammal populations across six continents. In addition to offering an open-access resource for researchers, educators, and conservationists, the ACDB represents a critical step toward recognizing the role of social learning in animal populations.