Question

Hatchlings are precocial in:

• A. Struthio, Rhea and Dromaeus
• B. Psittacula, Columba and Struthio
• C. Rhea, Aptenodytes and Corvus
• D. Coracias, Dromaeus and Struthio

Hint:

Recognizing the type of parental care in birds can greatly aid in understanding their behavioral ecology.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Understanding precocial and altricial species. Precocial species are those in which the hatchlings are relatively mature and mobile from the moment of hatching. This includes many ground-nesting birds like ostriches (Struthio), rheas (Rhea), and emus (Dromaeus), which need to be able to move immediately to follow their parents and escape predators.

Answer 2

To solve this problem, we need to identify the correct group of birds whose hatchlings are precocial, meaning they are born with their eyes open and can move around shortly after birth.

1. Understanding Precocial Hatchlings:
Precocial species, such as some birds, have hatchlings that are well-developed at birth. These birds are capable of walking, swimming, or feeding themselves soon after hatching. Examples of such birds include ostriches, rheas, and emus.

2. Evaluating the Options:
Let's analyze the options:

• Option A: Struthio, Rhea, and Dromaeus - This option is correct. Struthio (Ostriches), Rhea (South American flightless birds), and Dromaeus (Emus) are all known for having precocial hatchlings.
• Option B: Psittacula, Columba, and Struthio - Psittacula (parakeets) and Columba (pigeons) are not precocial birds; they are altricial, meaning their young are born underdeveloped and require care from the parents.
• Option C: Rhea, Aptenodytes, and Corvus - Aptenodytes (penguins) are altricial, not precocial, and Corvus (ravens) are also altricial, making this option incorrect.
• Option D: Coracias, Dromaeus, and Struthio - Coracias (roller birds) are not precocial, making this option incorrect.

3. Conclusion:
The correct answer is Option A: Struthio, Rhea, and Dromaeus, as they are all known for having precocial hatchlings.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is Option A: Struthio, Rhea, and Dromaeus.