What principle is depicted by avoiding overly complicated explanations for animal behavior?

The correct principle being referenced is the principle of parsimony. This principle emphasizes that when explaining phenomena, such as animal behavior, one should prefer the simplest explanation that accounts for the known facts. In other words, parsimony encourages minimizing assumptions and complexities, opting instead for straightforward explanations that do not introduce unnecessary elements.

By adhering to this principle, trainers and behaviorists can focus on the most relevant factors influencing an animal's behavior, making it easier to understand, communicate, and devise effective training strategies. The principle of parsimony is particularly valuable in scientific disciplines, as it promotes clarity and helps avoid convoluted theories that may complicates the interpretation of behavior.

While the principle of simplicity seems similar, the nuanced difference lies in the phrase 'principle of parsimony', which specifically relates to the scientific standard in explaining behaviors with the least assumptions, whereas simplicity is more about ease of understanding without necessarily tying it to a scientific foundation. This distinction solidifies why parsimony is the best fit for the question at hand.