The Bird That Sleeps In The Sky
By: EjazUlHaqBhat
Image: Pexels
Great frigatebirds, known for their incredible flying ability, are also fascinating for their ability to sleep while in mid-flight
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These birds, which can stay airborne for extended periods, have evolved to sleep using a process called unihemispheric sleep
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In this process, one side of the brain sleeps while the other side remains awake, allowing them to navigate and remain vigilant
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This type of sleep allows them to navigate, hunt, and avoid predators while simultaneously getting the necessary rest
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They also utilise brief bouts of sleep during circling flight, and in some cases, even deeper, full-brain sleep
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They also have the capacity to sleep in other flight patterns, such as during soaring or gliding
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This ability is crucial for their long-distance flights and foraging habits
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The ability to sleep while flying is crucial for frigatebirds' survival and reproductive success
Image: Pexels
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