Birds change altitude to survive epic journeys across deserts and seas
Phys.org
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Birds undertake some of the most remarkable migrations on Earth, traveling vast distances across deserts, seas, and other ecological barriers. A groundbreaking study published in *iScience* reveals that small migratory birds adjust their flight altitude to survive these arduous journeys, with strategies influenced by wing morphology and plumage color. This research provides new insights into how birds optimize energy use and adapt to challenging environments during migration.
The study highlights that birds fly at different altitudes depending on their physical characteristics. For instance, species with broader wings are more likely to ascend to higher altitudes, where they can glide efficiently, reducing energy expenditure. In contrast, birds with longer, narrower wings tend to stay lower, leveraging thermal updrafts and wind currents to aid their flight. Plumage color also plays a role in thermoregulation—darker feathers absorb heat, which helps birds maintain body temperature at higher altitudes where air is colder.
Understanding these altitude-adjustment strategies is crucial for conservation efforts. Migratory birds face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and collisions with human-made structures. By identifying how wing shape and plumage color influence flight behavior
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/20/2026