Birds migrating, cats chasing prey, sea turtles moving toward the ocean immediately after birth, and joeys moving to the mother’s pouch immediately after birth are all examples of
A instincts
B conditioning
C reflexes
D learning
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is A: instincts.
Instincts are innate behaviors that are hardwired into an organism’s genetics. These behaviors occur naturally and do not need to be learned or taught. Instincts are typically triggered by certain environmental stimuli and play a crucial role in survival and reproduction.
- Birds migrating: Migration in birds is an instinctive behavior. Birds are genetically programmed to migrate at certain times of the year, often to find food or suitable breeding conditions. They don’t learn this behavior; rather, it is an inborn trait that ensures their survival.
- Cats chasing prey: Domestic cats, even those that have never hunted before, will often instinctively chase small moving objects, simulating prey. This behavior is part of their predatory instincts, essential for survival in the wild. While cats can learn how to hunt more efficiently, the urge to chase is innate.
- Sea turtles moving toward the ocean: Shortly after hatching, sea turtles instinctively move toward the ocean. This behavior is vital for their survival because the ocean provides the necessary environment for them to grow and avoid predators on land.
- Joeys moving to the mother’s pouch: When a baby kangaroo (joey) is born, it instinctively moves to its mother’s pouch for safety and nourishment. This behavior ensures the joey’s survival, as the pouch provides a protected environment for development during its early stages of life.
While conditioning (B), reflexes (C), and learning (D) are all important forms of behavior, they differ from instincts. Conditioning refers to learned associations between stimuli and responses. Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli (such as pulling your hand away from a hot surface). Learning involves acquiring new behaviors based on experience. Instincts, however, are pre-programmed and essential for survival without the need for prior experience or teaching.