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Feather chemistry helps track origin of birds

October 11, 2021

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are using geology and rainfall patterns to track migratory birds of prey across North America. Using an innovative combination of isotopes from the feathers of kestrels, goshawks and other predatory birds called raptors, researchers can narrow down where the young birds likely hatched and learned to fly. This method offers a useful tool to help scientists track elusive, wide-ranging animals, identify critical habitats and observe any changes in migration patterns.