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What is altricial development in birds?
Quick Answer
Altricial birds hatch helpless, usually blind and featherless, and need extensive parental care. Songbirds and raptors are common examples.
The Full Story
Altricial species hatch in a relatively undeveloped state, with closed eyes, little feathering, and limited ability to regulate body temperature. Their parents must feed and protect them for days or weeks after hatching. Many songbirds, hawks, owls, and woodpeckers are altricial. The opposite strategy is precocial development, seen in birds such as ducks and shorebirds, where chicks hatch mobile and more independent.
Key Facts
1.Songbirds are often altricial
2.Altricial chicks need feeding after hatching
3.Precocial chicks are much more independent
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why some baby birds hatch helpless and others walk away from the nest"
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