Toucan’s Bill

toucanA study done by St. Catharine’s Brock University has figured out the evolutionary purpose of the toucan’s distinctive bill. Researchers have concluded that the bill, which accounts for 30-40 percent of the toucan’s surface area, is used to dispense body heat. Toucans can use their beak as a way to regulate their body temperature. By controlling the amount of blood flowing through their beaks, toucans can adjust their body temperature.

This study puts to rest earlier theories about the bill. These theories include that the bill was used to attract a mate, reach fruit, or scare away predators.

For more visit The Toronto Star.

Learn more about the toucan by visiting Animal Fact Guide’s article: Toco Toucan.