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Special Species

Winged Wisdom: The Surprising Health Hacks of Birds

In a stunning revelation from the animal kingdom, the great bustard, a majestic flyer, has been found to engage in a practice that mirrors human herbal medicine.

Analysis by Dr. Karen Shaw Becker

• 4 min read
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health hacks of birds

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

  • Great bustards, the heaviest flying birds on Earth, seem to seek out specific medicinal plants, perhaps to self-medicate against parasites and pathogens
  • Scientists collected 623 droppings from the birds and analyzed their contents of different plant species
  • Two different plants — corn poppies (Papaver rhoeas) and purple viper’s bugloss (Echium plantagineum) — appeared in abundance
  • Both plants have antiparasitic effects while purple viper’s bugloss is also antifungal
  • Due to great bustards’ unique mating process, which is so elaborate it takes a toll on males’ immune systems, it’s likely the medicinal plants may be used for their immune-boosting properties as well

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bark & whiskers disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own veterinarian or doctor. Dr. Karen Becker cannot answer specific questions about your pet's medical issues or make medical recommendations for your pet without first establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Your pet's medical protocol should be given by your holistic veterinarian.

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