Which animal is described as wary of anything new in its territory?

• A. Pigeons
• B. Rats
• C. Sparrows
• D. Starlings

Answer: (B)

Neophobia, the wariness of rats toward anything new in their territory, explains this description. Rats tend to investigate new objects slowly and may avoid traps or bait stations until they’re familiar with them. This means a control plan should start with pre-baiting non-toxic baits to acclimate rats to the new item, keep traps and bait stations in place long enough for acceptance, and place them along established runways rather than randomly. Once the rats accept the new device, toxic bait can be introduced. In contrast, the other species listed typically show less reluctance to new stimuli, so this behavior is characteristic of rats.