Physiology – Woodpecker skulls are not shock absorbers
Publication information:
Biewener AA. Physiology – Woodpecker skulls are not shock absorbers. Current Biology. 2022;32(14):R767-R769.
Abstract
Woodpeckers are well-known for their audible percussive wood drilling. A new study shows that these birds benefit from their small size and key skull features to safely hammer at wood for insect food and nesting excavations.