Which of the following examples describes a behavioral pattern that results from a proximate cause?
A) A cat kills a mouse to obtain nutrition.
B) A male sheep fights with another male because it helps to improve its social position.
C) A female bird lays its eggs because the amount of daylight is decreasing slightly each day.
D) A goose squats and freezes motionless to escape a predator.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The female bird laying eggs in response to decreasing daylight is a proximate cause, as it is a direct trigger for the behavior.

Answer: A, B, D 
 These examples describe ultimate causes, as they involve more complex motivations for behavior such as obtaining nutrition, improving social position, or avoiding predators.

Which of the Following Examples Describes a Behavioral Pattern That