Parental care

Definition

Parental care refers to any form of behavior exhibited by parents that enhances the survival and well-being of their offspring. It can include activities such as feeding, protecting, and teaching.

Related terms

Altricial offspring: Offspring that are born or hatched in an undeveloped state and require extensive parental care.

Precocial offspring: Offspring that are relatively mature and independent at birth or hatching, requiring less parental care.

Brood parasitism: A reproductive strategy where one species lays its eggs in the nest or care of another species, relying on them for parental care.