Feathers
Articles tagged with Feathers
Mapping mercury contamination in penguins of the Southern Ocean
Researchers from Rutgers University mapped mercury contamination in penguins of the Southern Ocean, revealing variations in mercury accumulation among different species. The study found that Adelie and gentoo penguins had low mercury levels, while chinstrap penguins showed significantly higher exposure due to their migration patterns.
New research finds fluorescence in feathers of long-eared owls
A recent study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology reveals that Long-eared Owls have fluorescent pigments in their feathers that can only be seen under ultraviolet light. The amount of pigment varies within a population and is correlated with age, sex, and size, suggesting alternative functions beyond sexual signaling.
How feathers develop in chickens
Researchers found that inhibiting the sonic hedgehog pathway restricts feather bud outgrowth and branching in chickens. Temporarily modified Shh expression resulted in proto-featherlike structures, highlighting the pathway's importance in feather development.
New fossil discovery reveals how volcanic deposits can preserve the microscopic details of animal tissues
A 30,000-year-old vulture fossil from Central Italy has preserved microscopic feather pigment structures in a mineral phase called zeolite. This new mode of preservation extends the understanding of soft tissue preservation in volcanic rocks.
When birds lose the ability to fly, their bodies change faster than their feathers
Researchers compared feathers and bodies of flightless birds and their flying relatives, finding that some features change relatively quickly. The study sheds light on evolution of complex traits that lose original function, and could help reveal which fossil birds were flightless.
Researchers put the shine on digitally rendered feathers
Researchers created digital images of iridescent bird feathers that change colors at different angles, incorporating tiny variations for a glittery appearance. The new method uses specimens from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology as a reference and has potential applications in video games and animation.
Cretaceous chewing lice eggs provide insight into early coevolution with early bird hosts
A new study reveals fossilized chewing lice eggs in mid-Cretaceous amber, associated with enantiornithine feathers. The discovery provides insight into early coevolution between bird hosts and ectoparasites, shedding light on the origins of modern lice.
Bird wings inspire new approach to flight safety
Researchers at Princeton University developed a new technology inspired by bird feathers, which improves flight performance and prevents stalling. The covert-inspired flaps deploy in response to changes in airflow, offering an inexpensive and lightweight method to increase flight performance without complex machinery.
New Zealand’s kākāpō developed different feather colors to evade predatory birds
The kākāpō evolved two color types to avoid detection by Haast's eagle and Eyles' harrier. Genome sequencing shows olive feather coloration emerged around 1.93 million years ago, coinciding with the evolution of these predators.
Flamingos don’t preen more than other waterbirds
New research reveals that flamingos are 'middle of the road' when it comes to preening time among waterbirds. The study found that captive flamingos actually spend less time preening compared to wild birds and other waterbird species like pelicans and gannets.
The ancestor of all modern birds probably had iridescent feathers
Researchers used a family tree of 9,409 bird species to explore the spread of color across the globe. They found that iridescence originated outside of the tropics and in most cases arose 415 times across the bird tree of life, suggesting the common ancestor of all modern birds likely had iridescent feathers too.
Hens blush when they are scared or excited
Researchers found that domestic hens exhibit distinct facial expressions, including flushing and feather fluffing, to convey different emotions. The study provides a window into the emotional lives of farmed poultry, potentially improving their welfare.
Birds need entertainment during avian flu lockdowns
Researchers studied a flock of Chilean flamingos locked indoors due to avian influenza, finding they became inactive upon release, but more alert while indoors. The study suggests providing varied activities can help alleviate bird stress during lockdowns.
Cage-free chickens are louse-y
A recent study by University of California - Riverside researchers has discovered that lice are a significant threat to free-range chicken populations, causing skin lesions and disrupting healthy behaviors. The study's findings have implications for states like California, where all egg production is cage-free.
Newly discovered dinosaur boasts big, blade-like horns
Lokiceratops rangiformis, a plant-eating dinosaur with large horned frill and asymmetrical caribou-like antlers, has been discovered in Montana. The species' unusual features may have played a role in mate selection or species recognition.
Feathers, cognition and global consumerism in colonial Amazonia
Researchers examine artisanal featherwork in colonial Dutch Brazil, highlighting its impact on Amazonian life and biodiversity. The study reveals the global exploitation of birds and indigenous knowledge transformed environmental creativity and cultural diversity.
Tawny owl’s pale grey color linked to vital functions ensuring survival in extreme conditions
The tawny owl's pale grey plumage is linked to crucial functions aiding survival in cold environments, including energy homeostasis and fat deposition. Genetic analysis reveals a 70-100% accuracy in predicting grey coloration through specific genetic variants.
The hidden rule for flight feathers—and how it could reveal which dinosaurs could fly
Scientists discovered a common trait among flying birds, including the number of primary feathers, to determine their evolutionary history. The finding provides clues about dinosaur flight and may inform debates on its origins.
Rallying for a better badminton birdie
Researchers improved nylon shuttlecock design to mimic feather shuttlecock behavior at high speeds, reducing air resistance and making them harder to return. The study's findings have the potential to revolutionize the sport of badminton.
Feathers from deceased birds help scientists understand new threat to avian populations
Scientists used stable hydrogen isotope data from 871 dead birds at California wind and solar facilities to understand the geographic origin of affected birds. The study found that most birds killed at solar facilities were nonlocal and varied among species, with local birds making up nearly half of those killed at wind facilities.
Replicating the structure of bird feathers
Researchers at ETH Zurich replicate the structural design of bluebird feathers using a new method. The material exhibits nanonetworks similar to those found in natural feathers and offers potential for technical and sustainable applications, including battery improvements and water filtration.
Australian footprints are the oldest known evidence of birds from southern regions
Researchers have discovered a series of bird footprints from the Early Cretaceous period in Victoria, Australia, indicating that diverse birds lived in southern polar environments during this time. The discovery provides new insights into the distribution and dispersal of early birds across landmasses.
NTU Singapore and ETH Zurich scientists convert waste chicken feathers into the heart of clean fuel cells
Researchers from NTU Singapore and ETH Zurich have developed a clean and sustainable material to build zero-waste fuel cells using chicken feathers. The membrane, made from protein amyloid fibrils, conducts protons and reduces carbon emissions from burning unwanted chicken feathers.
Dinosaur feathers reveal traces of ancient proteins
New research reveals similarities between dinosaurs and birds in terms of protein composition in their feathers. Analysis of fossil feathers from Sinornithosaurus and Confuciusornis showed beta-proteins, similar to those found in modern bird feathers.
Fossils reveal how ancient birds molted their feathers— which could help explain why ancestors of modern birds survived when all the other dinosaurs died
Researchers studying ancient bird fossils discovered that molting, the process of shedding and regrowing feathers, was more complex than previously thought. The discovery sheds light on how ancient birds, including those that survived the mass extinction event, developed this crucial survival strategy.
Penguin propulsion: The physics behind the world’s fastest swimming birds
A team of researchers from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences developed a hydrodynamic model to study penguin wings' propulsion physics. The model reveals that wing feathering is the main factor in generating thrust, allowing penguins to swim efficiently and maneuver swiftly.
Scales or feathers? It all comes down to a few genes
Scientists have found that modifying the expression of specific genes can trigger the formation of feathers in chicken embryos, replacing scales. This study has significant implications for understanding how animals evolve and diversify, and could lead to new insights into similar processes in other species.
For birds, blending in may result in more diversity
A study reveals that birds in multispecies flocks from Southeast Asia converge on similar appearances, blurring species distinctions. This phenomenon may contribute to diversity by allowing birds to adapt and evolve distinct traits within a species.
Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County’s Dr. Luis Chiappe co-authors paper on relationship between feathered dinosaurs and beetles
Researchers from Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County have discovered evidence of a symbiotic relationship between Cretaceous dinosaurs and feather-feeding beetles. The study found that the beetles fed on the feathers of theropod dinosaurs during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 105 million years ago.
Fossils reveal the long-term relationship between feathered dinosaurs and feather-feeding beetles
The study found fossils of beetle larvae in intimate contact with dinosaur feathers, suggesting a symbiotic relationship where the beetles fed on the feathers. The discovery provides insight into coevolution between vertebrates and arthropods over 500 million years, revealing rare evidence of their interaction.
Scientists uncover the amazing way sandgrouse hold water in their feathers
Scientists have discovered how sandgrouse hold water in their feathers, enabling males to fly long distances and retain enough water for chicks. The unique feather structure uses capillary action to absorb and retain water.
How an African bird might inspire a better water bottle
Scientists capture unprecedented view of sandgrouse feathers using high-resolution microscopes and 3D technology, revealing their singular architecture that allows them to hold up to 15% of their body weight in water. The findings could lead to new bio-inspired creations for controlled absorption and secure retention of liquids.
Why do females prefer ornate male signals?
A team of researchers at Eötvös Loránd University developed a general formula to calculate honest equilibrium in any model, independent of signal costs. Their results reveal that honesty does not require signal costs to be paid in equilibrium, and that the cost is borne by cheaters, not honest individuals.
Danish researchers discover birds with neurotoxin-laden feathers
Two new species of poisonous birds have been discovered in New Guinea's rainforest, containing a neurotoxin similar to that found in South American poison dart frogs. Genetic changes in these bird species allow them to tolerate and store the toxin in their feathers, potentially serving as a defensive mechanism.
Coffee plantations limit birds’ diets
A study by University of Utah researchers found that birds eat fewer invertebrates in coffee plantations than in forests, threatening their survival. The disturbance of ecosystems significantly impacts dietary options, leading to reduced survival and population declines.
Woodcocks have the brightest white feathers ever measured
Researchers discovered that woodcock tail feathers reflect up to 55% of light, 30% more than any other bird feather, due to their unique structure and arrangement. This enhanced reflectance allows them to attract attention in dimly lit environments.
Pink + pink = gold: hybrid hummingbird’s feathers don’t match its parents
Scientists discovered a Pink-throated Brilliant hummingbird with gold throat feathers, which is actually a hybrid of two pink-throated species. The hybrid's unique coloration is explained by the complex interaction of genetic and structural factors that determine feather colors.
How birds got their wings
Researchers at the University of Tokyo found that a specialized wing structure called the propatagium evolved in non-avian dinosaurs, paving the way for modern birds to fly. The discovery, based on statistical analyses of arm joints, helps fill gaps in knowledge about bird flight origins.
UCF researcher studies bird wings to improve stability in aerial vehicles
Assistant Professor Samik Bhattacharya is studying bird wing morphing to engineer stable solutions for unmanned aerial vehicles and micro air vehicles. His research could lead to improved control during airflow disturbances, reducing anxiety for pilots.
Feathered ‘fingerprints’ reveal potential motivation for migratory patterns of endangered seabirds
Researchers found that the feathers of large seabirds contained nutrients from multiple ocean basins, while smaller birds had elements matching their local foraging environments. This discovery may explain the long-distance migrations of threatened species.
Feather mite species related to the Laysan albatross discovered in Japan
Researchers have identified two new feather mite species associated with the endangered Laysan albatross in Japan. The study provides valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of these parasites and their impact on the bird population. The findings highlight the importance of conservation efforts to protect this species.
Rare fossilized feathers reveal secrets of paleontology hotspot during Cretaceous period
A study of early Cretaceous bird fossils has provided insights into the preservation of soft tissue and the taphonomic effects on the environment. The analysis suggests that a combination of factors, including climate and sedimentation, contributed to the exceptional preservation of feathers in some specimens.
Study finds flightless Puffins vulnerable to winter storms for two months a year
Researchers tracked puffins with tracking devices, revealing they lose flying ability during 1-2 month molting period, making them vulnerable to severe weather conditions. The study suggests this timing is significant as climate change increases winter cyclones in the North Atlantic.
How giant-faced owls snag voles hidden in snow
Great gray owls have a broad disc-like face that acts as radar to find food, while their facial features help correct for sonic distortions caused by snow. The owls' ability to hover above prey allows them to pinpoint location and avoid acoustic mirages created by the snow.
Bright colors in the animal kingdom: Why some use them to impress and others to intimidate
Research at the University of Arizona found a strong link between bright color use and ancestral day-night activity patterns. Species that use bright colors for sexual signals were descended from diurnal ancestors, while those using aposematism had nocturnal ancestors. This pattern holds across land vertebrates with over 40,000 species.
Feathery insulation helped dinosaurs survive and thrive: Study
A new study reveals that Triassic dinosaur species endured freezing conditions due to their well-developed feathers. This adaptation allowed them to thrive in colder climates, while other reptiles perished. The discovery sheds light on the ecological rise of dinosaurs after the Triassic-Jurassic Extinction.
Rare wild ancestors of feral pigeons found living on British and Irish islands
Researchers have discovered rare colonies of Rock Doves, the wild ancestors of common domestic and feral pigeons, on secluded Scottish and Irish islands. The findings provide valuable insights into how the domestic pigeon came to be, with varying degrees of interbreeding between the two forms of the species.
Bionic wing flaps improve wind energy efficiency
Scientists from China have developed a bionic approach to improve wind turbine performance by combining features of a seagull's wing with an engineered flow control accessory. The combined flow control improves lift and delays stalling at high angles of attack, increasing the efficiency of wind energy turbines.
An ancient relative of Velociraptor is unearthed in Great Britain
The newly discovered dinosaur Vectiraptor greeni, from the Early Cretaceous period, was a large, heavily built relative of Velociraptor with powerful claws and serrated teeth. It is believed to have hunted larger prey, using its strength rather than speed.
Birds’ dazzling iridescence tied to nanoscale tweak of feather structure
Researchers have discovered a natural nanostructure in birds that produces iridescent shimmer, finding an evolutionary tweak in feather nanostructure that has more than doubled the range of iridescent colors. This insight could inspire new materials that capture or manipulate light.
Migratory birds have lighter-colored feathers
Researchers found that migratory bird species tend to be lighter colored than non-migratory species, reducing the risk of overheating during extreme journeys. The study's findings suggest that lighter plumage coloration helps birds absorb less heat and stay cooler in the hot sun.
Fossil bird with fancy tail feathers shows that sometimes, it’s survival of the sexiest
Scientists discovered a fossil bird with elaborate tail feathers, showing how natural and sexual selection influenced bird evolution. The discovery sheds light on the balance between traits that aid survival and those used for display.
Female hummingbirds look like males to avoid harassment
Researchers found that one-third of female hummingbirds resemble males, allowing them to feed without being attacked. This phenomenon suggests non-sexual social selection plays a role in the evolution of female ornamentation.
Wildfire changes songbird plumage and testosterone
A study found that wildfires alter male red-backed fairywrens' plumage, making them less attractive to females, while also lowering circulating testosterone. This suggests an evolved response to minimize breeding during unfavorable environmental conditions.
Researchers learn how swimming ducks balance water pressure in their feathers while diving
A team of researchers discovered the method ducks use to suspend water in their feathers while diving, allowing them to shake it out when surfacing. They found that by using multiple layers of feathers, ducks can create air pockets that prevent irreversible wetting, enabling them to shake off excess water.
New study suggests falcons have natural 'eye makeup' to improve hunting ability
A new scientific study suggests that dark 'eyeliner' feathers of peregrine falcons have evolved to reduce sunlight glare, thereby improving their hunting ability. The research found that the size and darkness of the malar stripe, directly beneath the eyes, vary positively with solar radiation levels.
Mummified parrots point to trade in the ancient Atacama desert
Researchers found scarlet macaws and Amazon parrots transported from over 300 miles away, eating the same diet as agriculturalists. Mummified birds were often eviscerated and mummified with their mouths open or wings spread in flight.
A solid solvent for unique materials
Researchers at the Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics have created a flexible method to produce sol¬id, two-dimensional silica solvents, allowing for control over material properties and molecular structure. This breakthrough simplifies material design and synthesis.
Higher elevation birds sport thicker down "jackets" to survive the cold
Researchers studied Himalayan songbirds and found that those living at higher elevations have more fluffy down feathers than lower-elevation birds. Smaller-bodied birds with longer feathers in proportion to their body size also tend to have thicker insulation.