Question

What is the purpose of the har piece of tissue at the tip of a duck's bill?

1) To allow them to dig seeds out of soil and mud
2) To help them catch fish
3) To protect their bill from damage
4) To attract mates

Answer 1

The tissue at the tip of a duck's bill protects it from damage during foraging. It is an adaptation related to their feeding behavior but does not serve as a primary tool for catching fish or attracting mates. Thus, the option 3 is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The piece of tissue at the tip of a duck's bill, often known as a 'nail,' serves to protect their bill from damage when foraging for food. Ducks, like many birds, have beak adaptations that are specifically tailored to their feeding habits and environments. For instance, parrots have down-curved, hooked bills for cracking seeds and nuts, while hummingbirds possess long, pointed bills for accessing nectar in flowers. Thus, the nail at the tip of a duck's bill acts as a hard layer that prevents wear and tear while the duck digs in soil and mud for food. However, it is not specifically for digging seeds out of soil and mud, for catching fish, or for attracting mates.