Physical vs Behavioral Defense Mechanisms

Front

What is a Physical Defense Mechanism?

Back

A physical defense mechanism is a physical trait or feature that helps an animal protect itself from predators, such as camouflage, shells, or spines.

Front

What is a Behavioral Defense Mechanism?

Back

A behavioral defense mechanism is an action or behavior that an animal uses to protect itself from danger, such as playing dead or living in groups.

Front

Give an example of a Physical Defense Mechanism.

Back

An example of a physical defense mechanism is a turtle's shell, which protects it from predators.

Front

Give an example of a Behavioral Defense Mechanism.

Back

An example of a behavioral defense mechanism is a skunk spraying a foul-smelling liquid to deter predators.

Front

Why do animals have defense mechanisms?

Back

Animals have defense mechanisms to protect themselves from predators and increase their chances of survival.

Front

What does it mean when an animal plays dead?

Back

When an animal plays dead, it is using a behavioral defense mechanism to avoid being eaten by pretending to be unappealing or lifeless.

Front

How do zebras use group living as a defense mechanism?

Back

Zebras live in large groups to confuse predators and increase safety through numbers.

Front

What is the purpose of an octopus squirting ink?

Back

An octopus squirts ink as a behavioral defense mechanism to create a smokescreen that helps it escape from predators.

Front

What type of defense mechanism is a skunk's smell?

Back

A skunk's smell is a physical defense mechanism that deters predators through its strong odor.

Front

What is camouflage?

Back

Camouflage is a physical defense mechanism that allows an animal to blend in with its surroundings to avoid detection by predators.