Saturday, April 19, 2025

Recent Study Reveals Fluorescent Properties in Long-eared Owl Feathers

Posted in
on
New research from Drexel University has uncovered the presence of fluorescent pigments in the feathers of Long-eared Owls, visible only under ultraviolet light. Led by PhD candidate Emily Griffith, the study highlights variations in these pigments among the owl population and suggests they serve functions beyond traditional sexual signaling, challenging the notion that colorful plumage is a male trait. The research indicates that female Long-eared Owls actually possess a higher concentration of these pigments, reflecting a more complex relationship between color, size, age, and sex in avian species. The findings contribute to the growing understanding of avian fluorescence, opening new avenues for exploration in bird plumage research.

Read More