From a height of up to 30 meters above sea level, the northern gannet observes the movement of fish underwater, then suddenly sets its sights on its target, and its body transforms into an arrow that launches itself towards the water at speeds that can reach up to 113 kilometers per hour.
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Those who observe this rapid dive will notice that the bird breaks through the sea surface in a single moment with its head and neck, to begin chasing its prey underwater. This raises a perplexing question about how the bird's neck can withstand the force of impact with the water, without its delicate vertebrae being damaged.
The answer—as revealed by a recent scientific study published in The Anatomical Record—may be hidden in the anatomical design of his neck.
Researchers from the University of Washington began their study by obtaining specimens of birds that dive to catch their prey, and others that do not rely on diving, from the Burke Museum of Natural History. They then used computed tomography to create three-dimensional models of the cervical vertebrae, which allowed them to examine the shape and details of the bones accurately.
The researchers then resorted to using a statistical technique called "geometric morphometry" to identify reference points on the bones and compare their dimensions and shapes between different bird species, finding that the vertebrae of birds that dive diverge are thicker, wider, and relatively shorter, providing greater support against compressive forces.
They discovered that gannets and bobies have an additional articular surface in the second to sixth cervical vertebrae, and they believe that this structure helps prevent the neck from bending backward when the bird hits the water.
Stronger vertebrae and anatomical support
The researchers concluded that the secret to the success of diving birds lies in their stronger vertebrae, which are shorter, wider, and thicker.
It also has additional anatomical support that helps stabilize the vertebrae and limits backward flexion of the neck. These characteristics are likely to help transfer loads across the cervical spine rather than concentrating them in one place.
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