Hummingbirds Are Evolving to Adapt to Life With Humans
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Summary
Hummingbirds in North America are changing their anatomy by developing longer, more pointed beaks in order to better access sugar-laced drinking fountains in urban areas as opposed to seeking out nectar in flowers, a study has found.
males are more likely to exhibit these changes
The birds’ behaviour is an example of commensalism, whereby a species benefits from another without causing harm, say researchers.
A similar phenomenon can be observed in the common pigeon, which has benefited from urbanisation.
These birds were domesticated more than 5,000 years ago but soon fled captivity and began to live in cities, where they have since become a common sight.
Urban areas represent a ready supply of nesting sites and food for these descendants of rock doves.
