How An Invasive Snail May Save An Endangered Bird

The video explores the concept of evolution, using the example of the snail kite, a bird of prey that has adapted to environmental changes in the Florida Everglades. The introduction of the invasive island apple snail posed a threat to the snail kite's survival, but the bird demonstrated phenotypic plasticity, allowing it to adapt without genetic changes. This adaptation highlights the ongoing process of evolution and the role of environmental pressures in shaping species.

What process transformed a small hoofed mammal into a diverse group of whales over millions of years?

How do water levels affect the nesting of snail kites?

What are the unique feeding adaptations of snail kites?

What challenges do snail kites face due to habitat loss?

How did the introduction of the island apple snail impact snail kite populations?

What is phenotypic plasticity and how did it affect juvenile snail kites?

In what ways might the island apple snail have helped snail kites stave off extinction?