Avoiding Predators

Question 1

Give 3 ways to avoid predators

Answer 1

1. blend in to environment - crypsis. e.g cuttlefish 2 types of camouflage. 1. uniform pattern. one colour. 2. mottled pattern. small light and dark splotches
2. be quiet - e.g toadfish. preyed on by dolphins. make different sounds when hunting and playing. make less sound when hear dolphin preying noises
3. chose a safe habitat- parrots. those that nest in places outside of tree cavities have lower predation pressure and so nest for longer

Question 2

3 behaviours shown when a predator is encountered

Answer 2

1. flee - flight initiation distance - how close the predator is before fleeing. further away for animals who hunt on stamina e.g hyenas
2. approach - approach animals that hunt by surprise. e.g gazelles and lions. can get information on the predator, decrease risk of attack and signal to others
3. signal - alarm calls, tail flagging - lifting and lowering tail. tells predator attack is unlikely to succeed. stotting - gazelle - high the stot, better condition animal is in and will be harder to catch

Question 3

4 anti predator effects of grouping

Answer 3

1. detection- the more animals more likely to spot a predator
2. dilution - larger the group the less likely each individual is to be eaten
3. defence - can attack predator as a group
4. confusion - complex movements as a group can distract predator

Question 4

5 disadvantages of living in a group

Answer 4

1. more likely to be spotted
2. more chance of disease
3. more competition for mates and food
4. infanticide and cannibalism
5. problems finding offspring