ABSTRACT
The regulation of vertebrate aggression involves the interplay of circulating hormones, neurosteroids, and neuropeptides across many brain areas, including those of the social decision-making network. Seasonally breeding songbirds are excellent models to study these interactions, as their aggression and its modulation often vary by life history stage. Here, we discuss the endocrine and neural regulation of seasonal territorial aggression in male birds, with emphasis on the Pacific Northwest subspecies of the song sparrow (Melospiza melodia morphna). We end by suggesting further integration of seasonality into studies of neural networks to more fully understand the dynamic control of aggressive behavior across vertebrates.
