Plants with Weapons!

Squeaks and I enjoy watching animals eat outside. We observed a bird, a frog, and a deer. The deer avoided a plant, which led us to discover it was a dogwood tree with sticky latex as a defense. Plants use various defenses like thorns, chemicals, and smells to deter animals. Some plants are even poisonous. Animals adapt to these defenses, and plants continue to evolve new strategies. We can learn about these interactions by observing nature.

What did the deer do when it encountered the dogwood tree?

• It tried to uproot the plant.

• It ate the entire plant.

• It took a small bite and left.

• It ignored the plant completely.

What is the primary defense mechanism of the dogwood tree?

• Sharp thorns

• Sticky latex

• Poisonous leaves

• Bad smell

Which plant defense involves making animals itchy?

• Thorns

• Latex

• Special oils

• Poison

How do some plants deter animals with their smell?

• By having no smell at all

• By producing a minty aroma

• By emitting a skunk-like odor

• By releasing a sweet fragrance

What happens when animals eat poisonous plants?

• They grow faster

• They become stronger

• They get very sick

• They become immune