Interesting bird research articles around the world (no taxonomy or paleontology) (3 Viewers)

[jurek]

I decided to make a common thread on sharing interesting research articles. I think many are interesting for birders. Learning about them from popular newspapers, youtube etc is both injustice to the authors and opens way to wondering how much some random youtuber messed the facts.

Wild Harpy Eagle attacks a tourist:

Unveiling the Myth: Harpy Eagle Harpia harpyja Attacks on a Human in the Amazon Forest​

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.71266

 

[jurek]

Honeyguide behaviour: is it true that honeyguides sometimes guide people to danger, especially in revenge for not being rewarded for their effort?

To Bees or Not to Bees: Greater Honeyguides Sometimes Guide Humans to Animals Other Than Bees, but Likely Not as Punishment​

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.71136

Behavior of Greater Honeyguide is something special. It has been known for centuries from African folklore, but, in the 21. century, we still don't know how much of it is real, and how much a legend.

 

[OrnithologyDevotee]

Very interesting reads! The article on the Harpy Eagle attack was enlightening about what scientists chose to hide from the public. I suppose if publicity of an eagle attack showed up to a wide audience, it would negatively impact eagle conservation because of public opinion. Similar to how people fear sharks because of occasional attacks.

The article "To bees or not to bees" was an excellent read! I hadn't heard of this behavior before! During some casual searches for some more photos of honeyguides, I came across this website with some interesting images that may be of interest to some of you. African Honeyguides - Research on a human-animal mutualism

Thank you for creating this thread! I found it very interesting and entertaining!