Part 1: Post a Response In California, Pacific Northern rattlesnakes prey on California ground squirrels. Their relationship is a great example of coevolution. Read the Snake Venom Evolved to Kill Specific Squirrels with Shocking Precision article, then address the following questions:

Pages:
1 page (275 words)
Double spaced

Type of paper:
Discussion Essay Possible checklist Undergraduate (yrs. 1-2)

Discipline:
Biology (and other Life Sciences)

Title:
Pacific Northern rattlesnakes prey on California ground squirrels

Sources to be cited:
0

Paper format:
Not applicable

Paper instructions:
week 7
Part 1: Post a Response
In California, Pacific Northern rattlesnakes prey on California ground squirrels. Their relationship is a great example of coevolution. Read the Snake Venom Evolved to Kill Specific Squirrels with Shocking Precision article, then address the following questions:

Explain why the relationship between these two species is considered an example of coevolution.
What did you find most interesting or significant about how the rattlesnake population adapts to the squirrel’s defenses against its venom?
Part 2: Respond to a Peer
Read a post by one of your peers and respond, making sure to extend the conversation by asking questions, offering rich ideas, or sharing personal connections.

Discussion Requirements
Your primary post should be your own thoughts and should be at least 125 words. To meet the length expectations, be sure to address the topic completely. Flesh it out with detailed explanations or examples as appropriate.

There is no minimum length for the reply to a fellow student, but for maximal credit, your reply should be substantive, and not merely an affirmation or “good job.”
Peer to respond to:
Joseph Bourque IV

Hello Professor and Class,

The squirrels have to overcome and adapt to survive in any environment because they are known prey for snakes. The snakes have had to do the same thing with their venom, slowly evolving the effectiveness of their weapon. It more about population control and survival of the species when we look at it. We want these species to live on and thrive. We watch as nature takes its course in order to keep the squirrels from taking over the planet, or having thousands of snakes invading homes. The have had to evolve to to “keep up with the times” as humanity calls it.

Rodents have forever been on the radar of predators. They are land creatures and deal with land problems just like us, needing water, food, roof, and safety. I am sure past squirrel family tree lines have passed on their tricks and instincts, but to change on a cellular level to survive is mind blowing. Makes you wonder if the first venom resistant squirrel looked at a snake and accepted his new instincts instantly or played it safe