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Ever wondered why bird's eggs have such unique colors? A new study helps explain why.
According to a study conducted by a team from the University of London, bird’s eggs vary in pigment in order to allow just the right amount of UV rays to reach the developing bird inside. Though eggs are often covered by a hen, they still need some amount of sunshine to properly develop. For birds that build their nests in full sunshine, the eggshells develop with an increased degree of pigment to balance the abundant sunlight reaching the embryo.
Researchers tested the pigments from 75 different species in a museum collection and were able to identify specific pigments and their roles. The white eggshells we often associate with chickens, are also found in birds that nest underground or in shaded areas, the more shade, the paler the egg, according to researchers. Length of incubation was also a factor in the type of pigments present. Some pigment patterns are also thought to provide camouflage (Michelle Warwicker, “Eggshells Act Like 'Sunblock’, Study Suggests,” BBC at BBC.co.uk, July 29, 2014).
This complexity that serves a vital purpose in the development of embryonic birds in the egg expresses the mind behind the creation. God takes great interest in the development of all living things, from the smallest beginnings to the vastness, and intensive needs, of the planet and the universe.
“He sends the springs into the valleys; They flow among the hills. They give drink to every beast of the field; The wild donkeys quench their thirst. By them the birds of the heavens have their home; They sing among the branches. He waters the hills from His upper chambers; The earth is satisfied with the fruit of Your works” (Psalm 104:10-13, NKJV, emphasis added).
If we can observe God’s magnificent care of His creation, then we should also be able to trust Him with our lives, and especially our spiritual lives now.
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