JOURNAL ARTICLE

Bird feeders have caused a dramatic evolution of California hummingbirds.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Nuwer, Rachel 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the evolutionary impact of hummingbird feeders on Anna's hummingbirds in the western United States. Research indicates that these artificial feeders have facilitated the birds' northward range expansion and led to significant changes in their beak size and shape over just a few generations. The study highlights that as feeders became more prevalent, the birds developed longer and larger beaks to access the abundant nectar, while those in colder regions exhibited shorter beaks for thermoregulation. The findings underscore the role of human-created environments in driving rapid evolutionary changes in wildlife. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/05, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:185367684
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