[Grammar] Those animals which eat grass and leaves were kept in a grassy field.

[ambitious-girl]

The following paragraph written by a teacher. What is the appropriate verb “eat” or “ate” ?

Another thing we noticed was the feeding arrangements for the different animals. The zoo authorities prepared the most suitable diet for each species. Lions and other meat-eaters were given meat. Birds were given grain or fruit. Those animals which eat grass and leaves were kept in a grassy field.

 

[emsr2d2]

"eat" is the correct choice. The present tense is used when describing a permanent fact or habitual action. These animals always eat grass and leaves. That's their natural diet.