What is an example of a causal question related to animal behavior?

A causal question in the context of animal behavior seeks to identify the underlying reasons or mechanisms that lead to a particular behavior. The choice regarding why animals migrate fits this definition perfectly, as it asks for an explanation of the reasons behind the migratory behavior observed in various species. This question delves into the factors driving migration, such as environmental changes, resource availability, or evolutionary advantages, thereby linking specific causes to observable behaviors.

In contrast, the other choices focus on different aspects of animal behavior. For instance, questions about the role of the environment or differences in hunting techniques may involve description or comparison rather than seeking a direct causal relationship. Similarly, inquiries into how animals learn from one another focus on the process of learning itself, rather than probing into the causal factors that initiate behaviors like migration. Thus, the focus on understanding the root causes of migration makes the first choice distinctly a causal question.