Can birds smell?
{Occasional book review - and discussion topic}
To be honest, I had not thought much about this specific topic with birds (“bird olfaction”), and
this recent book publication, The Secret Perfume of Birds: Uncovering the Science of Avian Scent by Daniele J. Whittaker (2022) was a fascinating and in-depth look into “avian chemical ecology.” I was fortunate to find a copy in my local library (Timberland Regional Library) and although you may think this is only for those interested in this topic (Ornithology focused), it is important to note this book has implications for the larger domain of biological studies - including human behavior. I mention the “local library” because I did not expect to see an academic book published by Johns Hopkins University Press on the shelves, but this book is also multi-layered with personal and professional stories that are engaging and informative. One reviewer said that it is “scientific” but also fits well in the “current popular nonfiction literature” genre.
Whittaker focused (for the most part) on Juncos with her research, but many other bird species are discussed. As it relates to iNaturalist, one bird that I have observed and help to identify is the Turkey Vulture and when reading this book, I immediately thought of the “sense of smell” as important to this species of bird (just look at those nostrils (nares)!). But Whittaker provides a deeper examination than just a few select species, and offers fascinating insights throughout the chapters. Whittaker proposes that humans have much to learn about the sense of smell in birds.
Here are some links that are associated with the book and a few book reviews - if you wish to read more.
Johns Hopkins University Press:
https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12467/secret-perfume-birds
Popular Science:
https://www.popsci.com/animals/secret-perfume-of-birds-danielle-j-whittaker/
A recent book review:
https://www.10000birds.com/the-secret-perfume-of-birds-uncovering-the-science-of-avian-scent-a-book-review.htm