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.

Question

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 largest group in the population.
• The large birds may be the hardest for predators to attack.
O The large birds may be the hardest for predators to see.
• The large birds may be the smallest group in the population.

Answer 1

The most credible explanation for the higher rate of survival of the large birds is that they may be the hardest for predators to attack. This explanation is supported by the fact that the only major genetic difference between the birds is their size, and larger birds are generally more difficult for predators to capture and kill. The other options, such as the size of the group or the visibility of the birds, do not directly address the advantage of the larger birds in evading predators.