World's Loudest Birds Discovered in Brazil

Biologists from the University of Massachusetts Amherst have discovered two new species in Brazil that exceed the 120-decibel threshold and rank among candidates for the world's loudest birds.

Details of the Research and Where It Was Published

This important research conducted by biologists from the University of Massachusetts Amherst was published in the journal Evolution and made a wide impact in the scientific world. UMass biologist Jeff Podos and Ph.D. graduate João Menezes conducted a comprehensive study to collect amplitude data on a total of 123 bird species.

Newly Discovered Sound-Record-Breaking Species

Having previously discovered in 2019 that the white bellbird reached 125 decibels, the team this time identified two more species exceeding 120 decibels: the bare-throated bellbird and the red-legged seriema. With these findings, these three species emerged as potential candidates on the list of the world's loudest birds.

Physical Characteristics and Evolutionary Limits

It was determined that these three bird species within the scope of the research share common physical characteristics such as wide gapes and bulky muscles. Scientists pointed out that the 120-decibel level appears to be a physical limit for birds.

Scientific Mysteries and Expert Opinions

While the question of why birds evolved to be so loud remains a mystery, ornithologists like Elizabeth Derryberry from Cornell and Nathan Senner from Mass Audubon stated that the research is an important step in understanding evolution and conservation efforts.