The blackest bird feathers rival Vantablack

Topics:

Biological Sciences – Ecosystems; Genetics

Physical Sciences – Energy

Concepts (South Australia):

Biological Sciences – Interdependence and Ecosystems; Diversity and Evolution

Physical Sciences – Energy

Years: 5, 6, 7, 10

Word count: 442

Bird colouration is a model system for understanding evolution, speciation, and sexual selection – this is an interesting look at the blackest substance the natural world produces, and why. The accompanying article could be used to look at the topic of evolution, or alternatively can be used to look at transfer of light energy in Year 5 (or rather the lack of it in this case!) and a real-life, relevant example.