ambush predator
Waits, then strikes
An ambush predator is an animal that hunts by lying in wait rather than actively pursuing prey.
Crocodiles, trapdoor spiders, and anglerfish are classic examples—they remain motionless until prey comes within striking distance, then attack with sudden explosive force.
The strategy trades energy efficiency for patience: The lion is more of an ambush predator than a pursuit hunter.
- trapdoor spiderBurrowing arachnid with hinged lid
- sit and waitRemain stationary in anticipation
- mantisInsect with grasping forelegs
- carnivoreCreature eating only animals
- killer instinctMerciless competitive determination
camouflage · crocodile · raptorial forelegs · lie in wait · lurk · stealth · hunting · nature documentary · anglerfish · prey · precision timing · tiger · frogfish · scorpionfish · pounce · strike zone · lightning strike · patience
- ecological rolesproducer, consumer, decomposer, prey, herbivore
- predationstalking, pursuit, pouncing, attack, killing
- reptileslizard, snake, turtle, crocodile, alligator
- ecologyhabitat, ecosystem, balance, niche, food webs
- animal behaviorsswimming, running, walking, jumping, flying
- big catslion, leopard, lioness, cub, cougar
ambush predatorpack hunter
Carnivore coordinating group kills
prey species · scavenger · herbivore · filter feeder · grazer
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