I would say they basically work together
A direct observation usually refers to observing a behavior and knowing exactly what is happening. For example, if I see a pigeon peck at some bread, I have observed it pecking. With direct observation, I cannot assume it is eating, that it is hungry, that it has any intention whatsoever. All I know is that it pecks.
C. Mimicry
Mimicry is the similarity of one organism to another due to selective favouratism.