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Q. Do birds have ears?
A. Yes, they do! They're just hidden under feathers called auriculars that cover the ear openings on the sides of their head.
Like humans, birds have an outer ear, a middle ear, and an inner ear. Feathers cover the ear opening to protect it and cut the wind noise. But if you ever see a bald bird (more common in Blue Jays and Northern Cardinals), you might have the opportunity to see their ear openings!
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Barbara - birds can lose feathers because of mites, but the Blue Jays that I see in my yard during August that have bald heads have just lost their head feathers all at one time during a regular molt. They usually molt gradually so we barely notice. Don't worry, they grow back!
Thanks so much for your nice feedback!
Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | March 15, 2012 at 12:44 PM
Goodness that poor bird - what happened to its feathers on its head Nancy?
Love all your faqs and your posts... great stuff to read and think about.
Posted by: Barbara | March 09, 2012 at 11:18 AM