Final answer:
The correct answer to the question is a) Vulture, as vultures are scavengers that feed on the remains of dead animals, playing a key role in nutrient recycling and energy flow within an ecosystem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question is referring to a type of bird known for its scavenging habits. In this context, the correct answer would be a) Vulture. Vultures are known as scavengers because they consume the soft tissues of dead animals, rather than hunting live prey. This distinguishes them from other birds of prey, like falcons which are hunters. For instance, a vulture may be seen eating remains such as those left behind by a predator's kill. In contrast, raptors such as falcons or hawks, are carnivores that actively hunt and eat mammals and other birds. Their beaks and talons are well adapted for killing and tearing apart their prey. In comparison, the beaks of vultures are designed to tear into the flesh of carcasses. These feeding habits are an essential aspect of energy flow in ecosystems, as vultures help to decompose and recycle nutrients back into the environment.