The behavior of animals is influenced by a complex interplay of hormonal signaling pathways. This review provides an overview of the mechanisms by which hormones influence animal behavior, focusing on key hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, oxytocin, and cortisol. We discuss how these hormones act on the brain to regulate various behaviors, including reproductive behavior, social behavior, stress responses, and parental behavior. Additionally, we examine the impact of hormonal imbalances on behavior and discuss examples of hormonal disorders that can lead to behavioral changes. Understanding the role of hormones in animal behavior is crucial for advancing our knowledge of behavioral biology and has implications for fields such as conservation biology and animal welfare.

hormones, animal behavior, testosterone, estrogen, oxytocin, cortisol, reproductive behavior, social behavior, stress, parental behavior