Why was it important for animals to conceal their food shortages from the outside world?

Concealing food shortages allows animals to maintain their competitive advantage and avoid attracting predators or rival species that might exploit their vulnerability. By hiding their scarcity, they can ensure their own survival and protect their resources from being depleted by others. Additionally, this behavior can be crucial for maintaining social hierarchies within groups, as displaying weakness could lead to increased aggression or exclusion from communal support.