A new study from the University of Tokyo has uncovered a surprising new use of feathers for some birds: protection from predators. It turns out that some species of birds have feathers that contain a neurotoxin, which may help them ward off predators. Researchers studied the feathers of the African guinea fowl, and discovered that the feathers contain a compound known as pyrrolizidine alkaloid. This compound is known to have toxic effects on predators, causing paralysis or even death. The birds’ feathers appear to be an evolutionary adaptation to help protect them from predators. The study suggests that these birds may have evolved this defensive mechanism over time in order to survive.

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source: Phys.org