How Animals Overcome Fear to Obtain Food
We as humans frequently view activities in terms of a cost-benefit analysis; in other words, we weigh the risks of a particular action against its potential rewards. This process is typically considered to only be practiced by humans, however, there is evidence in support of the theory that animals use a similar thinking strategy to obtain food.
- Animals realize that to leave their home or nest means to take risks. They could encounter predators or become injured, both of which will cost them valuable resources. However, they are forced to take risks in order to survive.
- Animals, particularly mice, have been shown to weigh the risks and rewards of venturing from their hiding places in order to obtain food. Studies have been conducted in which the mice were presented with a food source as well as a potential predator. The mice grew accustomed to the mechanical predator and its habits, and then began to slowly remove the food resources that were furthest in distance from the predator.
- During the experiment, the mice fled to their nests when they first encountered a predator. They then froze, a natural adaptation used when they are fearful, in hopes of avoiding the predator's notice. If given the choice, the mice would surely have never left their nest. But their need to eat led them to slowly determine the predator's capabilities and find a way to safely obtain the food.
- This thought process is also demonstrated in other species. Nearly all wild animals attempt to avoid contact with with predators, including human beings. However, they are occasionally driven by food scarcity or the desire for foods that have high rewards values, to overcome their fear and move into unfamiliar environments.
- This point is exemplified by naturally shy creatures, such as deer and rabbits, when they enter gardens in order to feed on cultivated plants.