What is the process called during early life that establishes species-specific patterns of behavior?

The process referred to in the question is imprinting, which occurs during a critical period in an animal's life and involves forming attachments or responses to specific stimuli, usually from a parent or a caregiver. This phenomenon is essential for species identification and includes behaviors that are often rooted in evolutionary advantages for survival.

Imprinting is unique in that it typically happens at a young age and can profoundly influence social recognition, mating, and even navigation later in life. For example, many bird species will imprint on the first large moving object they see after hatching, often following it as if it were their mother. This behavior establishes a framework for future interactions and helps ensure that individuals recognize their species and kin, which is vital for reproduction and social behavior.

While the other processes mentioned are related to learning and behavior, they differ in that conditioning involves forming associations through reinforcement or punishment, learning generally refers to the acquisition of knowledge through experience, and instinct is an innate behavior that does not require experience. Imprinting specifically captures a unique and crucial aspect of behavior development in early life, solidifying its role in establishing species-specific patterns.