UPSC CSE Prelims 2021

Correct Option

Both hedgehogs and pangolins exhibit a specific defensive behavior of rolling into a tight ball to protect their vulnerable parts from predators.

• Hedgehogs: When threatened, a hedgehog curls into a compact, spiny ball. This action presents its sharp, stiff spines outwards, creating a physical barrier that deters most predators.
• Pangolins: These mammals are covered in tough, overlapping keratin scales. When in danger, a pangolin rolls into a tight ball, shielding its soft underbelly and head with its armored scales, making it extremely difficult for predators to attack.

Incorrect Options

Marmots (Option 2) do not employ the strategy of rolling into a ball for defense. Their primary defensive mechanisms include burrowing into their extensive underground tunnel systems and emitting loud alarm calls to warn other marmots and evade predators.

• Option 1 (1 and 2) is incorrect because marmots do not roll up for defense.
• Option 2 (2 only) is incorrect as marmots do not utilize this defense mechanism.
• Option 3 (3 only) is incorrect because while pangolins do roll up, hedgehogs also exhibit this behavior, making the option incomplete.