JustJimAZ

Some time ago, Allen Hopps mentioned that he was looking at predation strategies in nature as a something for haunt actors to emulate.

Predation strategies refer to the different approaches and techniques that predators employ to capture and consume their prey. These strategies can vary greatly among species and are often shaped by the predator's physical attributes, hunting environment, and the specific characteristics of their prey. Here are several notable predation strategies found in the animal kingdom:

1. Ambush Predation: A big one in use at haunted attractions. Predators using ambush strategy remain concealed and motionless, waiting for their prey to come within striking distance. This strategy relies on surprise and often involves a quick burst of speed or a sudden attack to capture prey. BOO!

2. Pursuit Predation: Predators utilizing pursuit strategy are adapted for high-speed chases. They actively pursue their prey over long distances, relying on their speed, agility, and endurance to catch up with and capture fleeing prey. Man, this would be fun in a haunt, but obviously would need a VERY specific setup, or a carefully designed area where the patrons could FEEL pursued , but not be in danger of tripping or running into a wall.

3. Stalking: Stalking predators use stealth and patience to get as close as possible to their prey before initiating an attack. They move slowly and carefully, minimizing noise and avoiding detection until they are in an optimal position for capturing their target. This one I've seen a few times. Line actors often use this. Sometimes I see actors quietly follow patrons through the haunt. Can be pretty effective.

4. Cooperative Hunting: Some predators, such as wolves and lions, employ cooperative hunting strategies. They work together in groups or packs to increase their hunting success. Cooperative hunting allows predators to coordinate their actions, surround prey, and overcome larger or more formidable targets. Yeah, gang up on 'em!

5. Camouflage: Predators that rely on camouflage blend in with their surroundings, making it difficult for their prey to detect them. They often have coloration or patterns that help them merge with the environment, allowing them to launch surprise attacks when the prey comes close. Like the actor wearing a grandfather clock costume.

6. Trap Setting: Certain predators, like trapdoor spiders or alligators, create structures or mechanisms that act as traps for unsuspecting prey. They construct burrows, webs, or other snares, often with a hidden entrance or trigger mechanism, to capture prey that wanders too close. A big commercial haunt probably would not use this because it hinders the throughput, but a home haunter has different priorities!

7. Venomous Predation: Some predators possess venomous adaptations, such as snakes or cone snails. They inject venom into their prey, immobilizing or killing them before consumption. Venom can cause paralysis, tissue damage, or affect the prey's nervous system. I may not be too imaginative, but I cannot think of a legitimate way/reason to envenomate your guests. :-)

8. Tool Use: A few predator species exhibit tool use to enhance their hunting efficiency. For instance, some dolphins use sponges to protect their snouts while foraging in rocky areas, and certain birds of prey drop objects to crack open hard-shelled prey. Well, we have lot's of options for tool wielding scares, from death whistles to chainsaws! I'm a fan of building scare masks / fright masks over hard shell paintball or airsoft masks too. Like a dolphin using a sponge, it protects your snout from pesky fists!

9. Lure Tactics: Certain predators employ lures or decoys to attract prey. For example, anglerfish use a fleshy appendage to mimic prey, enticing smaller fish to approach before they are captured. Oh, yeah, the distraction/lure. "please help me!" she begs, setting you up for the AMBUSH. What's your favorite lure?

10. Parasitic Predation: Parasitic predators rely on a host organism for their survival. They attach themselves to or invade the host's body, slowly feeding on its tissues or bodily fluids. Examples include ticks, fleas, and parasitic wasps. Umm, I think I'll leave that one to the animals. And corporate commercial haunts. ;-)

It's important to note that these strategies represent general categories, and many predators employ a combination of tactics depending on the circumstances and availability of prey. Great scare actors do too! What's your favorite tactic/ Do you use one not on the list?