Abstract

Understanding wildlife behavior is crucial for effective conservation and management. However, studying the behavior of diverse species presents challenges due to their complexity and the availability of data. To address this, we present a universal indicator for assessing the ease of humans learning wildlife behavior. This indicator incorporates species familiarity, behavioral complexity, and data availability, providing a standardized framework for evaluating learnability. Applying the indicator to a diverse range of species reveals insights into research priorities and knowledge gaps. The indicator enables researchers, educators, and policymakers to prioritize efforts, enhance conservation strategies, and facilitate effective wildlife management and education initiatives. Its application has the potential to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of wildlife behavior on a global scale. While the indicator is a valuable tool, its limitations necessitate ongoing data collection and refinement. The universal indicator advances our understanding of wildlife behavior and informs evidence-based conservation and management strategies.