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MIGRATION IS ANOTHER TRADE-OFF. Birds that migrate have…

“MIGRATION IS ANOTHER TRADE-OFF. Birds that migrate have smaller brains than their sedentary relatives. This makes sense, as a brain that consumes a lot of energy and develops slowly would be too costly for birds that travel a lot.” quote by Jennifer Ackerman
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““MIGRATION IS ANOTHER TRADE-OFF. Birds that migrate have smaller brains than their sedentary relatives. This makes sense, as a brain that consumes a lot of energy and develops slowly would be too costly for birds that travel a lot.””

Jennifer Ackerman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Migration involves trade‑offs; birds that travel long distances have smaller brains to conserve energy, contrasting with sedentary species.

In simple terms: Traveling birds have smaller brains to save energy.

Key Takeaway

Consider energy costs of movement.

Themes

biology evolution trade‑off energy migration

Mood

curious analytical thoughtful

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • studying animal behavior
  • conserving energy
  • designing efficient travel
  • ecological research

Key Concepts

neurobiology adaptation resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What other adaptations compensate for smaller brains?
  • How do trade‑offs shape evolution?
A Different Perspective

Brain size isn’t the sole measure of intelligence.

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