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Kelly C. Ballantyne's avatar

I was wondering the same thing as I was reading this, Maja! Thanks so much for sharing this cool science.

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Maja Mielke's avatar

Yes, that’s what I love about science—that finding answers to a research question always leads to new research questions! There’s SO much still to explore.

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Kelly C. Ballantyne's avatar

Soooo much! I’m always amazed at how many species of just birds we hardly know anything about.

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Idris - photography's avatar

Interesting as always!

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Maja Mielke's avatar

Thank you, Idris! 😊

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Karen Povey's avatar

What a great story. I didn't realize birds took counter measures to nest parasitism, but of course it makes sense. Thanks for teaching me something cool today!

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Maja Mielke's avatar

Thank you, Karen, for your kind words! 😊

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Neil Barker's avatar

Thanks for sharing this research, Maja. I find the nesting parasitism fascinating. I think Brown-headed Cowbirds do something similar by laying eggs in nests of different bird species. I like how you describe it as almost like an evolutionary arms race. A good question posed at the end as well. Best wishes on pursuing your PhD and looking forward to you sharing your artwork in future posts.

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Maja Mielke's avatar

Thank you, Neil! Indeed, Brown-headed cowbirds do the same. There are so many fascinating things about brood parasitism. For example, I admire how cuckoos find their way to their wintering grounds in Africa without ever meeting (and following) their biological parents. And I admire how different female cuckoos specialize on different host species and lay eggs that resemble those of their host. So cool!

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