Western Scrub-Jay

Western scrub-jays engage in sophisticated reciprocal behavior around food caching. Mated pairs share information about cache locations, and this information-sharing follows reciprocal patterns. Individuals who share cache information receive cache information in return. Those who hoard knowledge find their partners less forthcoming—punishment for non-reciprocity.

Prospective thinking distinguishes scrub-jay reciprocity. Jays cache food for future consumption, which requires anticipating future need. They also cache food in locations where their mate will find it—caching for others' future benefit. This 'planning for others' demonstrates that jays consider both their own and their partners' future states when making current decisions.

Audience effects shape caching behavior. Jays who've had caches stolen cache in new locations and move caches when observed by potential thieves. But they only do this if they've personally experienced theft—naive jays don't anticipate others' pilfering behavior. Personal experience with cheating triggers anti-theft countermeasures.

Food sharing extends beyond caching. During food abundance, scrub-jays directly share food with mates. Sharing intensity correlates with relationship quality, with long-term pairs sharing more than recent pair-bonds. The sharing serves as relationship investment—cementing bonds that provide benefits during lean times.

For organizations, scrub-jays demonstrate that reciprocity can involve information and planning, not just immediate resources. Sharing knowledge about future opportunities—not just current resources—builds reciprocal relationships.