Untitled Document
 Nearly
200 years ago, scientists said that hummingbirds used their forked tongues like straws to drink the nectar from flowers. Now,
almost two centuries later, recent studies from the U.S.
show that they were wrong. The studies found that these birds use
a far more interesting method of drinking!
The tongue of the hummingbird is split in the middle in the shape of a fork. Around
and between the two parts of the tongue are hairy extensions called ‘lamellae.’
Before the bird reaches a flower’s nectar
(a sweet liquid produced by flowers), the
tips of both forks are closed
and the lamellae are flat. When the tongue passes
over the surface of the nectar, it
separates and the hairy lamellae
open. Then, as the bird withdrawals its tongue, the
tips reclose and the lamellae
automatically curl inwards to trap the liquid.  So,
it uses its tongue more like a small mop or hairy rag than a straw!
This method is special because it does not require any energy at all.
Researchers tested the tongues of dead hummingbirds and discovered that it could
still trap liquid! This means that the birds do not rely on muscular energy to drink.
The new discovery has interested more than just those who study birds. Developers say that this
new idea can lead to new concepts in designing
absorbent materials, CT scans, and
even fluid-sipping robots! |
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