Hummingbird 'uses tail to chirp' (BBC) [View All]

[eppur_se_muova]

A species of hummingbird makes a chirping noise with its tail feathers, not its throat, a study using high-speed video has suggested.

The exact source of the noise from male Anna's hummingbirds has been the subject of debate among researchers.

By using specialised footage, a team of US scientists were able to show that male hummingbirds' tail feathers vibrated during high-speed dives.

The findings appear in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B journal.

The loud chirp sound is produced by male Anna's hummingbirds (Calypte anna) as the birds dive towards the ground at speeds that exceed 50mph (80km/h) during their displays for nearby females.


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http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7216230.stm

So the little hotrodders are screeching their brakes to impress the ladies? Truly, there is nothing new under the Sun.

3...2...1...OK, now start the "Bu**sh** always talks out his ass" jokes!