SAT Biology Subject Test Practice Questions

Answer: D, Convergent evolution. Both species have developed a similar characteristic for a similar purpose.

Key Takeaway: Convergent evolution occurs when two distinct species become similar in some way as a result of similar pressures. In the case of both the snow leopard and the owl, the pressure is the need for food. As nocturnal animals, both animals have evolved a distinct selection advantage which allows them to hunt at night and conserve energy that would be used during sunlight.