Question

what is the meaning of the word maternal as used in the passage? you may know that elephants, bears, and gorillas routinely have strong maternal instincts. but did you know that crocodiles also can be motherly? female crocodiles have been observed using their bone - crushing jaws to gently pick up and carry their babies to water. relating to a female parent relating to survival relating to animal behavior

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of "maternal", we analyze the passage. It says crocodiles can be "motherly" and female crocodiles carry their babies. The phrase "motherly" and the action of female parents (mothers) caring for babies show "maternal" relates to a female parent. The other options: "relating to survival" is not supported (the passage is about parental care, not survival), and "relating to animal behavior" is too broad (it's specifically about female parental behavior, not general animal behavior).

Answer:

relating to a female parent