Neurophysiology Techniques in the Avian Brain: Single Units and Field Recordings

Abstract This chapter outlines technical approaches to recording neurophysiological data in birds. A wide variety of electrophysiological techniques are used in the avian brain. These range from acute recordings in head-restrained animals to chronic recordings in unrestrained birds and even include recording during flight. The most common technical approach uses small movable microdrives, in some cases motorized, to advance single electrodes or bundles of electrodes. Recently, high-channel-count silicon probes have also been used in conjunction with microdrives. In all these scenarios, neurophysiological recordings in birds pose unique challenges and problems, one of which is the low weight tolerance, especially of smaller birds. This chapter discusses these unique challenges and provides solutions wherever possible.