Cannibalism in the animal kingdom - Bill Schutt
6,978,157 Views
5,346 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Until recently, scientists thought cannibalism was a rare response to starvation or other extreme stress. Well-known cannibals like the praying mantis and black widow were considered bizarre exceptions. But now, we know they more or less represent the rule. Bill Schutt shows how cannibalism can promote the survival of a species by reducing competition, culling the weak, and bolstering the strong.
Create and share a new lesson based on this one.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Cannibalism in the animal kingdom is widespread and serves a variety of functions. According to researchers, examples are as numerous as they are interesting. They include many species of invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and mammals. Not surprisingly, however, something very different comes to mind when the word “cannibalism” is mentioned. Why is that so? The following Q&A with the educator will give students an insight into what some might call an obsession.
Interested in learning more about the science and history of human and animal cannibalism? Check out Bill Schutt's book, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History, as he debunks common myths about cannibalism, and explore's its role in biology and anthropology.
Interested in learning more about the science and history of human and animal cannibalism? Check out Bill Schutt's book, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History, as he debunks common myths about cannibalism, and explore's its role in biology and anthropology.
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator
- Bill Schutt
- Director
- Petya Zlateva
- Script Editor
- Elizabeth Cox
- Animator
- Compote Collective, Petya Zlateva
- Designer
- Petya Zlateva
