Owls have many anatomical modifications that enable them to hunt at night. For example, some of their feathers are serrated on the edges, which eliminate the noise created by air flowing over a smooth feather surface. Owls can thus descend on their prey without a sound. They can locate small prey with remarkable accuracy, even in dim light or complete darkness. Experiments conducted in totally dark, soundproof rooms have shown that owls can capture prey after pinpointing its location to within 1.5 degrees in both horizontal and vertical planes. Based on this scenario, which of these structures do owls primarily rely on when they hunt in total darkness?
A) Photoreceptors
B) Olfactory bulb
C) Mechanoreceptors
D) Umami receptors
E) Nociceptors

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Owls rely on mechanoreceptors, specifically in their ears, to detect the minute sounds made by their prey in total darkness. This allows them to accurately pinpoint the location of their prey without the need for light.

Owls Have Many Anatomical Modifications That Enable Them to Hunt