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Science

Judi Lynn

(160,530 posts) Tue Feb 16, 2021, 05:25 AM Feb 2021

High-altitude birds evolved thicker 'jackets'

By Victoria Gill
Science correspondent, BBC News

Published 19 hours ago

ADITYA CHAVAN

A study of 250 species of Himalayan songbirds has revealed how their feathers evolved for higher altitudes.

The birds in colder, more elevated environments had feathers with more fluffy down - providing them with thicker "jackets".

The insight reveals how feathers provide the tiniest birds with such efficient protection from extreme cold.

It also provides clues about which species are most at risk from climate change, the scientists say.

More:
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56072590

2 replies

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High-altitude birds evolved thicker 'jackets' (Original Post) Judi Lynn Feb 2021 OP

Ahh, yes. PoindexterOglethorpe Feb 2021 #1

I suppose it would also be helpful in flying in thinner air @ high altitudes.... lastlib Feb 2021 #2

PoindexterOglethorpe

(25,857 posts)

1. Ahh, yes.

Reply to Judi Lynn (Original post)

Tue Feb 16, 2021, 07:00 AM

Feb 2021

I listened to that story earlier today and fund it fascinating.

Thank you for posting this.

lastlib

(23,231 posts)

2. I suppose it would also be helpful in flying in thinner air @ high altitudes....