Give an example of a descriptive question in animal behavior research.

A descriptive question in animal behavior research focuses on observing and detailing behaviors without seeking to explain or manipulate the circumstances surrounding those behaviors. The choice regarding female guppies engaging in territorial defense directly aims to observe and document whether this behavior occurs. This question is centered on identifying and describing a specific aspect of behavior in a straightforward manner.

Other options pose questions that delve into mechanisms, causal relationships, or underlying reasons. For instance, the question about how a bird builds its nest seeks to understand the process and methods, while the inquiry into what hormone influences mating behavior explores biological mechanisms. Lastly, asking why animals migrate points toward explanations and motivations behind the behavior. In contrast, focusing on whether female guppies defend territory serves to simply observe and record an aspect of their behavior without exploring the why or how, making it the best example of a descriptive question in the context of animal behavior research.