What sensory reliance is unexpectedly acute in the nocturnal kākāpō for navigating its environment?
Answer
A surprisingly acute sense of smell.
Although birds generally prioritize vision and hearing, the kākāpō has developed a heightened sense of smell necessary for its life as a nocturnal creature navigating dense forest undergrowth after sunset. This sense of smell is described as surprisingly acute for an avian species, enabling it to function effectively in the dark. This powerful olfactory presence is marked by a distinct, musky odor, sometimes characterized as sweet or musty, which is utilized for communication and potentially locating mates or food sources in its dark, specialized niche.
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