Question

In order to catch a mouse moving (and making sounds) in complete darkness the barn own detects

a. the duration of sound arrival from the mouse, and use it to compute the time of the mouse movement
b. the time difference between sound arrival to his left and right ears, and use it to compute the spatial angle of the mouse
c. the frequency difference of the mouse sounds (Doppler Effect)
d. to intercept the mouse echolocation,

Answer 1

The barn owl uses the time difference in sound arrival to its left and right ears to locate a mouse in darkness, similar to the echolocation method used by bats.

Step-by-step explanation:

To catch a mouse moving in complete darkness, the barn owl utilizes the time difference between sound arrival to its left and right ears. This time difference helps the owl to compute the spatial angle of the mouse's location. This ability is similar to the echolocation used by bats, dolphins, and whales, where they emit a sound and sense the reflected sound waves to understand the distance and direction of objects around them. This process is critical for navigating and locating prey when visual information is unavailable.

For instance, if a sound returns to one ear with a slight delay compared to the other ear, it provides the owl with information about the position of the prey. If the sound arrives at both ears at the same time, it indicates that the prey is directly ahead. The time for the echo to return is directly proportional to the distance, allowing the owl to effectively locate and catch the mouse.