Do Birds Have an External Ear and What Does It Look Like?

Introduction

When thinking about the anatomy of birds, one might wonder, 'Do birds possess an external ear? And if they do, is it similar to the external ears of mammals? Let's delve into the fascinating world of bird ears and explore their unique characteristics.'

Do Birds Have External Ears?

Contrary to popular belief, birds do indeed have external ears. Much like humans, birds have three components of their ear: the external ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The external ear of a bird is a tube-like structure that carries sound to the middle ear, just as it does in mammals. While the ear opening of a bird is covered by small feathers called ear coverts, these structures are essential for the birds' hearing ability. Note that in some nocturnal birds such as owls, the external ears are located asymmetrically, with one being positioned lower than the other. This anatomical feature allows them to pinpoint the exact location of their prey while hunting.

Comparing Bird Ears to Human Ears

While humans have a visible external ear, also known as the pinna, that helps to collect and direct sound to the ear canal, birds do not have a similar structure. Instead, the external ear of a bird is covered and protected by specialized feathers. These feathers, known as auricular feathers, help to channel sound waves into the ear canal and protect the bird's sensitive inner ear structures.

These auricular feathers are an essential part of a bird's hearing system. They act as a passive acoustic funnel, directing sound around the head and into the ear opening. This arrangement not only helps to protect the delicate inner ear structures but also enhances the bird's ability to hear a wide range of sounds.

Where Can You See Bird Ears?

Although the external ear structures are hidden by feathers, they can be seen in certain circumstances. New-born birds, such as squabs or squeakers, have their feathers yet to grow in, which makes the ear structures more visible. Additionally, during specific times of the year, when birds go through a molting process, the feathers covering the ear area may fall out together, revealing the external ear structures temporarily.

Here is a visual demonstration to help illustrate the point: In the picture below, you can see an example of what the ear openings of a young bird might look like:

Figure 1: The ear openings of a young bird (e.g., squab or squeaker)

Conclusion

In conclusion, birds do have an external ear, but it differs significantly from the external ear structures of mammals. While mammals have a visible and prominent pinna, birds have a more hidden and feather-covered structure. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, allowing them to hear a wide range of sounds and react accordingly to their environment.

For further reading on the anatomy of bird ears, you can explore the following sources:

The Avian Ear - Part I Anatomy Winged Wisdom Pet Bird Magazine Bird Ears: External Ear Structures in Birds

Understanding the anatomy of bird ears can provide us with valuable insights into their behavior and adaptability in different environments. Whether you're a bird enthusiast or a professional in the field, learning about the unique features of bird ears can be both fascinating and enlightening.