Deadly Hairs, Lethal Feathers: Convergent Evolution of Poisonous Integument in Mammals and Birds

The document discussed the convergent evolution of toxic integuments in mammals and birds, highlighting that both classes have species capable of producing or acquiring toxins for defense. In mammals, examples included venomous shrews and solenodons with specialized venom delivery systems, and the African crested rat, which used its unique hair structure to store plant-derived toxins. In birds, species like Pitohui and Ifrita acquired toxicity through diet, storing batrachotoxins in their skin and feathers. The study emphasized that poisonousness is a common evolutionary strategy across vertebrates, with integument adaptations serving as effective defense mechanisms.