托福口语 Task 4

Today, we're going to talk about a fascinating concept in animal behavior called 'tool use.' Now, tool use isn't just about using an object to get food; it can also involve using objects for communication or protection. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the sea otter. Sea otters often float on their backs and use a stone to crack open shellfish. They place the stone on their chest and smash the shell against it. This is a clear case of using a tool for feeding. Second, think about the male bowerbird. To attract a mate, the male bowerbird builds an elaborate structure, called a bower, and decorates it with colorful objects like berries, flowers, and even plastic items. This isn't for feeding, but for courtship. The female inspects the bower and chooses a mate based on its quality. So, in both cases, animals are using objects from their environment to achieve a specific goal, whether it's obtaining food or attracting a partner.