Unexplainable

Honey, we shrunk the birds

Oct 20, 2021
Join Benji Jones, a Vox writer passionate about environmental change, as he reveals a startling trend: birds are shrinking over time. Delve into how climate change impacts animal sizes and the potential implications for ecosystems. Explore the intricate behaviors of birds and envision a future where evolution adapts to a world without humans. With fascinating speculation on future creatures and ecosystems, this conversation challenges us to think critically about our role in shaping life on Earth.
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INSIGHT

Significant Shrinkage

  • Birds have shrunk significantly over 40 years.
  • They lost 2.6% of their mass and 2.4% of leg length.
INSIGHT

Widespread Shrinking

  • Shrinking isn't limited to birds; it's widespread.
  • Salamanders, fish, rats, deer, sheep, and toads are also getting smaller.
INSIGHT

Climate Change Link

  • Climate change is linked to shrinking animals.
  • Global warming is a likely factor in the observed size reductions.
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