Abstract
In a two-choice experiment, cats (Felis domesticus) chose an active quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) more often than a quail in tonic immobility (TI). In a second experiment, cats were individually presented with two active quail in an open field. Holding and biting by the cat, particularly about the neck, was necessary for inducing TI in a bird. Overall, the total time spent by a cat in stalking, attacking, and handling a bird was inversely related to the total time spent in TI by the bird. These results support the hypothesis that TI is a terminal defense mechanism elicited by predator contact. TI apparently eliminates the movement stimuli that sustain further attack.
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Thompson, R.K.R., Foltin, R.W., Boylan, R.J. et al. Tonic immobility in Japanese quail can reduce the probability of sustained attack by cats. Animal Learning & Behavior 9, 145–149 (1981). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03212037
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03212037