<i>Ethology</i> now publishes Registered Reports

For many years, Ethology has been encouraging replication studies. With the aim to reduce publication bias towards surprising and significant results, also welcoming studies reporting negative results. Now, we decided go a step further: As first major journal in animal behaviour, now publish Registered Reports. Reports emphasize importance of research question quality methodology by conducting peer review before data collection. High-quality protocols are then provisionally accepted for if authors follow through with registered methodology. A Stage 1 Report consists introduction methods section proposed study. will be peer-reviewed and, accepted, published Ethology. Moreover, upon acceptance Reports, commits itself accepting publishing final study, 2 Report, given it was conducted according study design reported stage (Figure 1). Importantly, does not depend on outcome In an editorial Conservation Biology, Parker et al. (2019) have outlined pros cons reports, thereby addressing main concerns people may regarding this format. I recommend especially those who familiar relatively new brief, what advantages why did decide format Ethology? First, can get feedback from independent referees their Reviewers focus whether topic is important field comment design, analysis plan, as well suggesting ways improve Because all happens collection especially—but only—benefit early career researchers help them planned research. Second, means that (with option embargo). decision based proposal question, gain recognition work just article. Third, agreed guarantees regardless which results found. This likely reduces overall time one international behavioural journals—irrespective outcome. Again, might benefit certain number papers earn degree. Fourth, reports allow scientific community better tackle problem (Allen & Mehler, 2019). agrees result plan outcome, less biased positive or findings. Finally, shows rigid guidelines Open Science Movement, (1) avoiding pitfalls small sample sizes, (2) selectively statistically outcomes, (3) undisclosed exploratory analyses (4) claiming tested priori hypotheses when fact they were only generated response (Parker al., Hence, extra credibility within general public. summary, combine benefits individual biology, community, increase science The team therefore hopes lot attention submissions community.