The incredible sensory capabilities of Hadeda ibises, also known as “African alarm clocks,” have recently been unveiled through groundbreaking research conducted by experts at the University of Cape Town (UCT). A study published in the Journal of Avian Biology has revealed a remarkable sixth sense possessed by these African birds, allowing them to detect vibrations emitted by buried invertebrate prey like earthworms.
The research emphasizes the unique sensory adaptation of Hadeda ibises, enabling them to sense vibrations and efficiently locate their prey in the soil, particularly in wetter substrates created by soil irrigation in suburban and agricultural areas. This adaptation plays a significant role in the expansion of their territory, showcasing their ability to thrive in a changing habitat.
Carla du Toit, a researcher at UCT’s Department of Biological Sciences and the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, underscores the importance of understanding the environmental factors influencing the distribution and behavior of wetland birds. The findings shed light on how Hadedas adapt to human-induced changes in their surroundings, demonstrating their remarkable ability to evolve alongside evolving habitats.
Referred to as a “remote touch,” the ibises’ sixth sense combines touch, hearing, and echolocation, allowing them to efficiently forage in wetter soils where vibrations travel more effectively. These results not only highlight the ibises’ adaptability to varying soil moisture levels but also provide insights into the sensory requirements of wetland birds crucial for conservation efforts amidst habitat transformations.
While the expansion of Hadeda ibises into new territories has been inadvertently facilitated by human activities, it is essential to consider the ecological consequences and potential impacts on wildlife. Future studies will explore the tactile sensory systems of birds globally to enhance our understanding of these senses’ functions and evolution, particularly in the context of changing environments.
(Source: [Research Reveals Sixth Sense of Hadeda Ibises](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/22/hadedas-sixth-sense-revealed-new-research/))