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Animal Defense Mechanisms

Explore different ways animals protect themselves from predators and threats.

Grade 8 Science BiologyDefense Mechanisms
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Multiple ChoiceFill in the BlanksTrue / FalseShort AnswerWord Bank

Standards

MS-LS1-4

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sciencebiologydefense mechanismsanimalsgrade 8
7 sections · Free to use · Printable
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Animal Defense Mechanisms

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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer. Some questions may require critical thinking about how animals protect themselves in the wild.

1. Which defense mechanism involves an animal blending in with its surroundings to avoid detection?

a

Mimicry

b

Camouflage

c

Warning coloration

d

Autotomy

2. An animal that pretends to be dead to escape a predator is exhibiting which type of defense?

a

Chemical defense

b

Behavioral defense

c

Structural defense

d

Active flight

3.   is when an animal sheds a body part, like a tail, to escape a predator.

4. Animals with   coloration often have bright, noticeable colors to warn predators of their toxicity or danger.

5. All animals use the same type of defense mechanism to protect themselves.

T

True

F

False

6. A skunk spraying a foul-smelling liquid is an example of a chemical defense.

T

True

F

False

7. Briefly explain the difference between camouflage and mimicry.

8. Describe one example of a structural defense mechanism found in animals.

Use the words below to complete the sentences.

warning coloration
autotomy
camouflage
mimicry

9. A harmless snake resembling a venomous snake is an example of  .

10. The ability of a lizard to detach its tail when caught by a predator is called  .