Question

Consider the following scenario:

A scientist is analyzing one bird population. There is a large amount of variation in size in the population. There are also predators that eat these birds. After collecting evidence on three types of birds (small, medium, and large), the scientist discovers that the large birds are less likely to be killed. The only major genetic difference is the size of the birds. The colors and behaviors of the large birds are the same as those of the small and medium birds.

Using reasoning skills, which is the most credible explanation for what is contributing to this higher rate of survival?

(1 point)

The large birds may be the hardest for predators to see.

The large birds may be the smallest group in the population.

The large birds may be the hardest for predators to attack.

The large birds may be the largest group in the population.

Answer 1

The large birds may be the hardest for predators to attack.

Reason: size is the only major genetic difference and larger size can make birds harder to catch or subdue; visibility and group-frequency explanations don't fit the observed higher individual survival.