Q
Why do some animals play dead?
A
Expert Answer
Thanatosis (playing dead) is a defense mechanism that works because many predators won't eat carrion or lose interest in non-moving prey. It's involuntary in some species (opossums, triggered by extreme fear) and deliberate in others. It can also reduce aggression in conspecifics.
Key Insight
Thanatosis (playing dead) is a defense mechanism that works because many predators won't eat carrion or lose interest in non-moving prey.
Topics