An optimal diet model is presented based on the expected time required for a predator to reach satiation. Predictions differ in some cases from a model based on maximization of the rate of energy intake. Foraging time may be minimized by a predator that begins as a specialist and then expands its diet to include lower value prey when it is near satiation. The results are most applicable when prey size is large relative to total intake.
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Laura J. Richards (1983) studied this question.