Backyard Feeders Changed the Shape of Hummingbird Beaks, Scientists Say

Closer Look at Bird Feeders Shows 'Evolution in Action'

A new study finds that human-provided hummingbird feeders aren't just helping hummingbirds survive—they're changing the physical traits of the birds themselves. Researchers focused on a species called Anna's hummingbirds, also finding that the feeders have helped the birds expand northward, from California to British Columbia, per the Guardian . For...

Backyard feeders changed the shape of hummingbird beaks, scientists say

A new study details the evolutionary change of Anna's Hummingbirds, finding their beaks have grown longer and more tapered to get the most from common feeders.

BLK ALERTS - Backyard feeders changed the shape of hummingbird beaks, scientists say

A new study details the evolutionary change of Anna’s Hummingbirds, finding their beaks have grown longer and more tapered to get the most from common feeders. (Image credit: ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

Backyard feeders changed the shape of hummingbird beaks, scientists say - TPR: The Public's Radio

A new study details the evolutionary change of Anna's Hummingbirds, finding their beaks have grown longer and more tapered to get the most from common feeders. The post Backyard feeders changed the shape of hummingbird beaks, scientists say appeared first on TPR: The Public's Radio.

Backyard feeders changed the shape of hummingbird beaks, scientists say : NPR

Hummingbirds gather around a hummingbird feeder filled with sugar water, in a backyard in the San Fernando Valley section of the city of Los Angeles, July 17, 2014. ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption toggle caption ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images/AFP A new study suggests that Anna's Hummingbirds in the western United States are not only keeping up with human influence on their habitat, they're thriving. According to a recent study …