Birds’ Role in Evolution

Birds’ Role in Evolution

In England, United Kingdom, birds can signify another meaning than the one discussed here, which hereby is namely vertebra from the flamingo species. Thus, ornithology is the science that studies these animals. Further, birds have hollow bones and cannot get fat, since it would impede their flying abilities. Also, birds have likewise contributed to science. Starting with Darwin’s finches, and finches reappear in contemporary neuroscience. Indeed, Darwin developed his evolutionary theory largely based on his observations of the finches of the Galapagos Islands. Gradually, their beaks would adapt to their diet, hence – survival of the fittest. Finally, plasticity in neuroscience research has been greatly aides by how swap and wild sparrows learn their songs. Interestingly, unless a bird is exposed to an adult male from its species during the learning period, the bird will fail to develop a proper mating song.

Penguins are birds but they only “fly” underwater. Image: Megan Jorgensen

Furthermore, birds are predominant in mythology and symbolism, such at the white dove signifying peace. Similarly, many mythical creatures are winged, often formed by morphing the bodies of an eagle and another animal. Moreover, in Medieval literature, eagles, dragons and pterosaurs or pterodactyls are likewise winged, but are reptilian in nature. By the same token, Griffins have an eagle’s head and a lion’s body. Conversely, felines have similarly been a favoured subject of mythology, with the Sphinx a remnant of Ancient times with the head of a woman and the body of a lion, the ruins still seen in contemporary Egypt. Finally, crows and ravens are most likely associated with Gothic literature. Horror films have also showcased birds, such as Alfred Hitchcock’s namesake, Birds.

An angry bird. Photo by Elena