Color-naming functions for the pigeon

Abstract

Six pigeons were trained to match wavelengths in a three-key matching-to-sample paradigm. Test trials were occasionally presented, where probe wavelengths appeared on the center key and choices were made to the training stimuli presented on the side keys. Color naming functions were obtained by plotting the percentage of test trials that each training stimulus wavelength was chosen for each center key probe wavelength. The wavelength where the functions intersected was interpreted as a transition point between pigeon hues. Three experiments employed different wavelengths as training stimuli. The first two experiments demonstrated that the intersection of the color-naming functions occurred in all cases at 540 nm and 595 nm. The third experiment employed 540 nm and 595 nm as two of the three training stimuli, and the relatively slow acquisition, together with the resulting color-naming functions, supported the proposition that 540 nm and 595 nm may be transition point wavelengths between pigeon hues.