predation risk

Predation risk refers to the threat that a predator poses to prey animals, influencing their behavior and survival strategies. It involves the chances that an animal might be hunted and eaten by a predator, which affects how prey animals act—like choosing hiding spots, being more alert, or limiting movement—to reduce their vulnerability. This risk shapes many aspects of animal behavior and can impact the distribution and abundance of species within ecosystems. Essentially, predation risk is about the constant danger prey animals face from predators and how they adapt to stay safe.