Crow Deaths: Researchers for the Western Australian Main Roads Department (MRD) found over 200 dead crows on the Great Northern Highway near Meekatharra 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 everyones relief, confirmed the problem was definitely NOT Avian Flu. The cause of death appeared to be from vehicular impacts. However, during the detailed analysis it was noted that varying colours of paints appeared on the birds beaks and claws. By analysing 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. MRD then hired an Ornithological Behaviourist to determine if there was a cause for the disproportionate percentages of truck kills versus car kills. The Ornithological Behaviourist 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.
Posted on: Tue, 19 Nov 2013 08:36:50 +0000
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