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Why Migratory Birds Often Have Paler Wings Than Other Birds
Why Migratory Birds Often Have Paler Wings Than Other Birds
A new study suggests that lighter colors may help these species stay cool on their long journeys, when birds are pushing themselves to their physiological limits.
A new study suggests that lighter colors may help these species stay cool on their long journeys, when birds are pushing themselves to their physiological limits.
color, evolution
Gene Regulation Gives Butterflies Their Stunning Looks
Katarina Zimmer | Nov 14, 2019 | 5 min read
Distantly related, lookalike Heliconius species arrive at the same appearance using the same few genes, but regulated differently, according to recent studies.
Image of the Day: Red-Feathered Finches
Emily Makowski | Sep 30, 2019 | 1 min read
Scientists uncover a potential reason why redder house finches have better health.
Hawaiian Spiders on Different Islands Evolved Same Disguise in Parallel
Catherine Offord | Mar 8, 2018 | 2 min read
In an unusual evolutionary twist, local stick spiders have come up with an almost identical repertoire of color morphs in multiple locations.
The Rise of Color
Jef Akst | Jul 1, 2014 | 1 min read
An analysis of modern birds reveals that carotenoid-based plumage coloring arose several times throughout their evolutionary history, dating as far back as 66 million years ago.
Dinosaurs’ Shiny Black Feathers
Cristina Luiggi | Mar 9, 2012 | 1 min read
A 130 million-year-old winged dinosaur offers scientist the oldest evidence of iridescent feathers.
How the Zebra Got Its Stripes
Jef Akst | Feb 9, 2012 | 2 min read
Zebras may have evolved their striped coat to avoid blood-sucking flies.