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Resource Library | Video

Resource Library
Video

TIL: Why Do These Birds Eat Dirt?

TIL: Why Do These Birds Eat Dirt?

Chips, pretzels, dirt—it turns out all of these things can fix a craving for salt! A behavior known as pica, the craving for substances other than food, has been documented in the macaws of the Western Amazon who lack certain nutrients in their diet. Join ornithologist and National Geographic Explorer Luke Powell to learn what makes South American rainforest clay so tasty.

Grades

5 - 12+

Subjects

Biology, Ecology

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National Geographic Headquarters
1145 17th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036

ABOUT
  • National Geographic Society
  • National Geographic Partners
  • News and Impact
  • Contact
EXPLORE
  • Our Explorers
  • Our Projects
  • Resources for Educators
  • Museum and Events
  • Technology and Innovation
JOIN US
  • Ways to Give
  • Apply for a Grant
  • Careers
Donate Get Updates
Connect
Connect

National Geographic Society is a 501 (c)(3) organization. © 1996 - 2021 National Geographic Society. All rights reserved.
Privacy Notice |  Sustainability Policy |  Terms of Service |  Code of Ethics

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