Written by:
peru.travel
Thursday, November 25, 2021
The Peruvian wide flora and fauna seems countless since it is impressive that only one country hosts a rich, amazing, curious, and large diversity. The last finding for the Zoology records is a unique bird in the world that is not like any other kind discovered on this planet and has been found in the Inca country: the Inti Tanager.
This colorful winged animal stands out due to its bright orange pink peak and its yellow feathers. Its discovery amazed scientists since it is a bird non-described before in any field guide; therefore, it is a new genus and species bird. It is also known as Tangara Inti (its Spanish name) and got this name standing for the Sun, an ancient Inca deity, for its color and its singing, used to be heard at the midday.
Watercolor paint of Daniel F. Lane. Credit: COBIRDI.
One of a kind
Under the scientific name Heliothraupis oneilli, this species was seen at the South of Peru, specifically in the tropical mountainous areas of the Andes from the past 20 years, roughly. This is the place where it would be reproducing itself. Under the lead of the ornithologist Kevin Burns – professor at the San Diego University, located in the United States -, around 5000 genes were collected and analyzed to understand how this peculiar animal is part of the 300 species of this kinds of birds and that also belongs to the second most diverse family of birds.
“All these creatures, birds or insects have been evolving and resolving problems during thousands of years. We should be concerned on the biodiversity due to many reasons: philosophical, aesthetical, but also practical. If we want to maintain the ecosystems, we should know all its players”, mentioned Burns after being asked about the importance of this discovery.
After analyzing the samples obtained in the long-lasting study (carried out since 2011) and comparing most of the genetic similarities that this bird may have with other related species, it was determined that Inti Tanager is not only a brand-new species but also is classified as a new kind. Its genetical analysis, combined with the unique appearance and conduct were key for obtaining this result.
Interesting facts
Should you want to read the detailed report of the finding of Inti Tanager, visit this paper published in the Ornithology magazine.
Sources: Europa Press / La República
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