vendredi 6 avril 2012

The Hoatzin, the bird with a disagreeable manure-like odor




The Hoatzin eats the leaves
and fruits of the plants
which grow in the marshes
where it lives.
One of this species'
many peculiarities is
that it has a digestive system
unique amongst birds.
Hoatzins use bacterial
fermentation in the front part
of the gut to break down
the vegetable material
they consume, like cattle
and other ruminants.
Because of this,
the bird has a disagreeable,
manure-like odor and
is only hunted for food
in times of dire need.
The alternative name
of "stinkbird"
is derived from the bird's
manure-like odour,
caused by its
digestive system.


source text: Wikipedia

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