Understanding Ethology and Animal Behavior

The video explores ethology, the study of animal behavior, by defining behavior as a response to environmental stimuli. It discusses learned versus innate behaviors and their evolutionary benefits. Examples include a baby's cry, a dog's behavior around food, and a possum playing dead. The video also covers hibernation and estivation as survival strategies.

What is the primary focus of ethology?

• The study of plant growth

• The study of animal behavior

• The study of celestial bodies

• The study of human anatomy

Which of the following is an example of a learned behavior?

• A possum playing dead

• A baby crying when hungry

• A dog sitting on command

• A bird migrating south for winter

What is the role of natural selection in animal behavior?

• It eliminates all behaviors

• It creates new behaviors randomly

• It has no impact on behavior

• It selects behaviors that are beneficial for survival

Why is a baby's crying considered beneficial from a natural selection perspective?

• It helps the baby to sleep

• It helps the baby to learn language

• It signals hunger to caregivers

• It scares away predators

What might a dog do when it sees food, according to the video?

• Run away

• Ignore the food

• Act extra cute and needy

• Bark loudly

What is the primary reason a possum plays dead?

• To attract mates

• To conserve energy

• To avoid predators

• To find food

Which behavior is likely innate in possums?

• Hunting in packs

• Singing

• Building nests

• Playing dead

What is a common theme in the examples of animal behavior discussed?

• Behaviors are unrelated to survival

• Behaviors can be a mix of learned and innate

• All behaviors are innate

• All behaviors are learned

What is hibernation?

• A state of increased activity

• A state of reduced metabolic rate during cold seasons

• A method of hunting

• A form of migration

What is estivation?

• A state of increased activity

• A method of hunting

• A form of migration

• A state of reduced metabolic rate during hot or dry conditions