Unexplainable Animals in the year 20202025
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Aug 25, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, Benji Jones, senior correspondent at Vox, unpacks the intriguing phenomenon of shrinking animal sizes, particularly among birds. He highlights how climate change is altering species adaptability and even envisions a future where ecosystems evolve post-humanity. The conversation also touches on the potential of introducing slime molds to Mars and the imaginative prospects of giant insects returning. It's a captivating exploration of evolution and the unpredictable future of life on Earth and beyond!
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Chicago Window-Bird Collection
- David Willard began collecting dead birds after finding several that had hit glass at McCormick Place in 1978.
- His volunteer team has since gathered over 100,000 birds for research at the Field Museum.
Birds Have Shrunk Noticeably
- Analysis of those bird specimens showed an average mass decline of about 2.6% over ~40 years.
- Multiple species across different families displayed this consistent shrinking trend.
Heat Favors Smaller Bodies
- Researchers link shrinking in many warm-blooded species to warming climates via Bergman's Rule.
- Smaller bodies dissipate heat more effectively, which can be advantageous in hotter environments.