Which of these supports optimal patch-leaving behavior?
Optimal patch departure occurs when the instantaneous rate of resource gain in the current patch falls to the average rate available in the environment, including travel time. This rule maximizes long-term gain rather than requiring complete depletion. Remaining until a patch is empty is often inefficient because the last items are difficult to find, while leaving too early sacrifices readily available food. The phrase “leave at maximum gain rate” is a simplified description of leaving at the point that maximizes the overall intake-rate tangent in the marginal value theorem. It should not be i
Ref: Ecology: From Individuals to Ecosystems, Begon et al., 5th Ed., Ch. 10