Co-operative hunting
African wild dogs hunting
Some predatory mammals such as lions, wild dogs and wolves rely on co-operation between members of the social group to hunt their prey.
Co-operative hunting may benefit sthe whole pack in a number of ways:
- The group can tackle larger prey animals
- The success rate of hunts is increased
- Less energy is used per individual
Although dominant individuals will eat first and most, subordinate animals are likely to gain more food than by foraging alone.
Co-operative hunting means each individual will get more food than they would by hunting alone.