Monday, December 19, 2011

Ultraviolet Vision


A study this year revealed that birds now join insects and reindeer as the latest species to have the ability to see ultraviolet light. Birds' eyes can see the ultraviolet in addition to the red through blue spectrum that humans can perceive. Scientists speculate that the reason for the vision might be for easier sight of predators, finding food and shelter, and for distinguishing colored plumage for mating purposes. Reindeer use their UV vision in winter to find lichens to eat, and to spot and avoid wolves' urine markers.

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