This Bird Is Known To Perform Death-Defying Dives
By: NDTVNewsDesk
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Gannets are birds that are famous for their spectacular and death-defying dives.
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They plunge into the ocean like a torpedo from heights of up to 40 meters, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h to catch fish.
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They possess unique physical adaptations that allow them to survive the immense impact of hitting the water at such speeds without injury.
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Gannets lack external nostrils; instead, they breathe through openings inside their mouth. This prevents water from being forced into their airways during impact.
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They have natural airbags, an extensive network of air sacs located between their muscles and skin in the face and chest.
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These act like "bubble wrap" or shock absorbers, cushioning the bird's body upon entry into the water.
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The muscles in their long, slender necks lock the vertebrae in place just before impact to prevent whiplash or a broken neck.
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They also have extra-thick, spongy bone plates at the base of their bill and a reinforced facial structure.
Image: Pexels
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