The evolution of begging

"Begging in nestling birds has become the model system for investigations into evolutionary conflicts of interest within families and the honest signalling of offspring need. Although originally inspired by theoretical treatments of parent-offspring conflict and its resolution, the field now includes a wide range of work in behaviour, physiology and evolutionary biology." "Leading researchers in avian begging and related fields were asked to contribute a chapter on a topic they found particularly exciting or novel. This book is the result of their enthusiastic response. The evolution of begging includes the full range of theoretical, empirical and methodological advances in the field and points the way for further research. As such, it constitutes a comprehensive reference for students, teachers and researchers with an interest in behaviour and evolution, and a source of ideas and inspiration for future investigations in this dynamic area."--BOOK JACKET.