Prey Might Group Together in Flocks of Herds Because Of

Question

Prey might group together in flocks of herds because of
A) the many eyes hypothesis.
B) the selfish herd hypothesis.
C) optimal foraging.
D) both a and b
E) both b and c

Accepted Answer

Prey animals may group together in flocks or herds due to the "many eyes hypothesis," which suggests that having multiple individuals on the lookout increases the chances of detecting predators early. Additionally, the "selfish herd hypothesis" posits that individuals in a group reduce their predation risk by positioning themselves in the center of the group, thus exploiting the protective benefits of the herd. Both hypotheses explain why prey might group together, making D the correct answer. Optimal foraging relates to how predators maximize their energy intake, not why prey group together.