Prediction of Switching and Counter‐Switching Based on Optimal Foraging

It is shown that optimally foraging predators can switch or counter‐switch depending on prey types and on environmental conditions, due to changes in the profitability of the prey types involved. Subsequently rules are developed to predict switching or counter‐switching by the predator when prey densities change, using examples from the literature as well as new data on prey selection in sticklebacks.