How do researchers gather information without manipulating animal behavior?

Researchers gather information without manipulating animal behavior primarily through observational methods. This approach involves watching and recording the natural behaviors of animals in their habitats without intervening or altering their environment. By doing so, researchers can obtain authentic data that reflects the true behaviors, social interactions, and ecological dynamics of the species being studied. Observational methods are crucial for understanding animal behavior in contexts that may be altered or influenced by experimental manipulation, allowing for a clearer picture of how behaviors develop and function in nature. These methods can include techniques such as focal animal sampling, scan sampling, and recording behavioral sequences, all of which contribute to an in-depth understanding of animal behavior in a naturalistic setting.