New species of poisonous birds discovered in New Guinea jungle by Danish researchers

The rufous-naped bellbird (Aleadryas rufinucha) is one of discovered posinous birds New Guinea - Researchers recently discovered two new species of poisonous birds during an expedition into the jungles of New Guinea.According to the University of Copenhagen, Knud Jønsson and his colleague Kasun Bodawatta captured the birds, each of which has developed the ability to consume toxic food and turn that into a poison of its own. "We managed to identify two new species of poisonous birds on our most recent trip.

These birds contain a neurotoxin that they can both tolerate and store in their feathers," Jønsson shared. The two birds that the researchers discovered to be poisonous are the regent whistler (Pachycephala schlegelii) and the rufous-naped bellbird (Aleadryas rufinucha).Kasun Bodawatta taking samples from a bird in New Guinea. (Credit: Knud Jønsson) "We were really surprised to find these birds to be poisonous as no new poisonous bird species has been discovered in over two decades.

Particularly, because these two bird species are so common in this part of the world," Jønsson continued.He told FOX Television Stations that he initially thought the results must be due to an error. "After repeating the analysis, I was astonished and somewhat baffled!," he revealed.There is a distinction in biology between the two ways that animals deploy poisons.

There are poisonous animals that produce toxins in their bodies and others that absorb toxins from their surroundings. The birds, according to the researchers, belong to the latter category and are believed to acquire toxins from what they eat. "I was astonished and somewhat baffled!"During their work, the researchers experienced the toxin’s effects.RELATED: 13 bald eagles.