What phenomenon describes rodents avoiding bait they’ve detected as harmful?

Bait shyness refers to the phenomenon where rodents avoid food sources that they have previously detected as harmful or toxic. This behavior is a natural survival mechanism, allowing rodents to learn from experiences that may lead to illness or danger. When they encounter a bait that has caused them distress or sickness, they are likely to avoid similar baits in the future, which can complicate pest management efforts. Understanding bait shyness is crucial in pest control strategies, as it emphasizes the importance of varying bait formulations and application methods to effectively manage rodent populations.

The other options do not capture this specific behavior accurately. Bait preference suggests a choice based on attractiveness rather than avoidance due to past negative experiences. Feeding behavior generally refers to the overall habits and patterns related to how rodents consume food, rather than their response to harmful substances. Rodent resistance often pertains to genetic or biological adaptations that make rodents less susceptible to certain toxins, which is a different concept than learned avoidance.