Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

What does "precocial" mean in terms of animal development?

1. Unable to see or hear at birth

2. Dependent on parental care for survival

3. Able to function independently at birth

4. Requires extensive training to survive

The correct answer is: Able to function independently at birth

The term "precocial" describes a type of animal development where the young are relatively mature and mobile from the moment of birth or hatching. Specifically, precocial animals are born with their eyes open and are able to walk, run, or swim shortly after birth, allowing them to function independently. This adaptation is particularly advantageous in environments where young animals face immediate dangers from predators and need to be able to seek shelter or food on their own shortly after they are born. In contrast to precocial species, there are altricial species, whose young are born in a much more vulnerable state, requiring significant parental care and development before they can survive independently. The other options highlight different developmental strategies or needs of young animals, but they do not align with the characteristics of precocial species, which emphasize the ability of the young to be self-sufficient from a very early stage.