Ecology - Predator vs Prey! How Prey (even plants) Defend Themselves

Leap into the world of ecology and learn about the way prey defend themselves! Lions, tigers, and bears may have the sharp teeth and claws that make us shout “oh my!”, but that doesn’t mean prey species just take it lying down! 

In this one-time class, students will learn about various methods of prey defense and also some of the world’s weirdest examples. There are many fascinating physical, chemical, and behavioral adaptations that prey species use to keep from being eaten. We’ll discuss some types of prey defense you may have heard of before (like camouflage) and some you may have never imagined. Mostly covered will be animals, but in this class we won’t forget that plants get preyed upon, too! We’ll discuss some common ways plants defend themselves from insects and herbivores, along with newer research that has shown plants unseen defenses to being eaten.

All that’s needed for this course is an interest in nature! All terms will be explained in class and I will have examples with lots of pictures as we go through the material together. Students are encouraged to ask questions and comment on the weird, intriguing, and even gross species we discuss.