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These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.

Battle of the Beaks

This practical activity explores beak adaptations in bird populations and looks at the way in which variation in beak shape is related to the available food sources within an environment.

Students simulate bird feeding by using a ‘beak’ to collect food and place it into a stomach. There are four different beak shapes and a range of different food types to choose from. Discussion points are provided to encourage evaluation of the scientific method, together with extension ideas. The activity can also be used to illustrate generalist versus specialist feeding strategies.

This resource was produced by the Linnean Society. Founded in 1788, the Linnean Society is the world’s oldest active biological society and promotes the study of all aspects of the biological sciences, with particular emphasis on evolution, taxonomy and biodiversity.

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