Researchers for the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority found over 200 dead crows near greater Boston recently, and there was concern that they may have died from Avian Flu.
A Bird Pathologist
examined the remains of all the crows, and, to everyone’s relief, confirmed the
problem was definitely NOT Avian Flu. The cause of death appeared to be
vehicular impacts. However, during the detailed analysis it was noted that
varying colors of paints appeared on the bird’s beaks and claws.
By analyzing these paint residues it was determined that 98% of the crows had
been killed by impact with trucks, while only 2% were killed by an impact with
a car.
MTA then hired an
Ornithological Behaviorist to determine if there was a cause for the
disproportionate percentages of truck kills versus car kills.
He very quickly concluded the cause: When crows eat road kill, they always have
a look-out crow in a nearby tree to warn of impending danger.
They discovered that while all the lookout crows could shout “Cah”, not a
single one could shout “Truck.” H/T Isophorone Blog
From Ace of Spades HQ
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