Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Science of Blue

Photos and Text from Marty Horowitz 

We have previously discussed the fact that hummingbirds take advantage of unique nano-structures in their feathers to generate their bright, iridescent reds, greens, and purples. On our walk this past Wednesday (1/18/2017), Fred pointed out that Western [and Eastern] Bluebirds also use nano-structures, rather than pigments, in their feathers to generate their signature hue. A nice article on the general subject of structural coloration in nature. (Bluebirds at the end of the article)


Photos (c) Marty Horowitz 1/19/2017



Western Bluebirds show their true colors.


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