The following is a behavior that might be observed in a predator exhibiting optimal foraging: ________
A) Dropping high energy food from its diet
B) Dropping common food items from its diet
C) Leaving a patch of prey when encounter rates get low
D) Leaving a patch when prey densities remain constant

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Leaving a patch of prey when encounter rates get low is a behavior that maximizes energy intake while minimizing energy expenditure. If prey densities are low, the predator would have to expend more energy than it would gain from the prey, so it makes sense to move on to a different patch. Dropping high energy or common food items from its diet may not necessarily be beneficial for the predator if those food items are still abundant and readily available. Leaving a patch when prey densities remain constant is also not necessarily the best strategy, as some prey may still be available and easily caught.

The Following Is a Behavior That Might Be Observed in a Predator