Competition in animals

• Food

  All animals require food which provides them with energy and raw materials to complete life processes, without which they may die. Because of these, competition for food can be fierce. There are many birds which eat insects in our gardens, and some have evolved to only eat certain types of insect to reduce competition from other species. Others like the blue tit and great tit compete with other members of their own species and as well as others for different insects. Because food is so vital, many animals will fight for it.
• Mates

  Animals within a species also compete for mates. This is essential so they can pass on their genes to their offspring. Animals have evolved to have an innate or natural drive to reproduce, and this competition often results in fights.
• Territory

  The territories of animals contain all of the resources and conditions they need to survive. These include abiotic factors such as light, temperature and water, and oxygen for aquatic animals. There are also biotic factors such as food and predators. Many animals, including the cats in back gardens, will fight for territory.