Final answer:
Ibn Khaldun's work doesn't prominently feature animals; he's more focused on the idea of 'asabiyyah' or social cohesion, and how it influences the rise and fall of states.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the animal motif used by Ibn Khaldun in his narrative. Ibn Khaldun, a notable historian and philosopher born in Tunis, established the foundations for modern sociology and economics. He did so primarily through his work 'Muqaddimah,' where he laid out his theory of history, centered around the concept of asabiyyah, or social cohesion. Though detailed descriptions of animals are not a primary focus in his writings, the interpretation of your question could be referring to metaphorical uses, since he does elaborate on differences between nomadic and sedentary lifestyles, possibly drawing on comparisons with animal behavior to make a point. His emphasis, however, is on the social structures and dynamics that give rise to states' power and their eventual decline.