Which of the following examples describes a behavioral pattern that results from a proximate cause? a) a cat kills a mouse to obtain nutrition. b) a male sheep fights with another male because it to improve its social position. c) a female bird lays its eggs because the amount of daylight is decreasing slightly each day. d) a goose squats and freezes motionless to escape a predator. e) a cockroach runs into a crack in the wall and avoids being stepped on.

C. A female bird lays its eggs because the amount of daylight is decreasing slightly each day.

Explanation:

A behavior can be considered as a result of a proximal cause if an event directly lead to the result without any intermediary. Daylight has a direct effect on bird's pineal gland that located behind its eyes. When bird receive direct day light, the gland will respond by sending hormone through its body and lead to eggs laying. When the bird sense that the daylight will keep decreasing each day, it will increase the process in order to maximize its reproduction.