Owls are renowned for their exceptional night vision. Their large, forward-facing eyes and specialized retinal structure with a high density of rod cells allow them to see in low light conditions that are impossible for most other birds.
Here are some examples of birds that are well-adapted for nighttime activity:
- Owls: The most famous nocturnal birds.
- Nightjars: These birds have huge eyes and specialized feathers that help them hunt insects at night.
- Nighthawks: These birds are active at dusk and dawn, but can also see well in the dark.
- Whip-poor-wills: This species of bird uses its excellent night vision to hunt insects at night.
While these birds are best known for their nighttime vision, many other bird species are active at night, such as some migratory birds, seabirds, and even some songbirds.