What is scatter hoarding?

Scatter hoarding is a foraging strategy used by some animals, particularly certain species of rodents and birds, where they store food items in multiple scattered locations rather than in a single central cache. This behavior helps reduce the risk of losing all their food to theft or spoilage, as the food is distributed across various sites. Scatter hoarders often rely on memory or spatial cues to relocate their hidden food during times of scarcity. This strategy enhances their survival by providing a more reliable food source when resources are limited.