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Revealed: Long-eared Owl Feathers Glow with Hidden Colors

4/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Drexel University researchers, led by Emily Griffith, have uncovered a stunning secret in Long-eared Owl feathers: vibrant fluorescent pigments that only shine under ultraviolet light. This groundbreaking study reveals that variations in these pigments are linked to the owls' size, age, and sex, challenging the belief that colorful plumage is exclusive to males and paving the way for deeper insights into avian beauty.

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Story summary

Drexel University researchers, led by Emily Griffith, have uncovered a stunning secret in Long-eared Owl feathers: vibrant fluorescent pigments that only shine under ultraviolet light. This groundbreaking study reveals that variations in these pigments are linked to the owls' size, age, and sex, challenging the belief that colorful plumage is exclusive to males and paving the way for deeper insights into avian beauty.