June 2016 PMID 27000554

Structural analysis of the tongue and hyoid apparatus in a woodpecker.

Jae-Young Jung, Steven E Naleway, Nicholas A Yaraghi, Steven Herrera, Vincent R Sherman, Eric A Bushong, Mark H Ellisman, David Kisailus, Joanna McKittrick

Mentions

37
Peak: 2 in Oct 2022
across 6 sources since Oct 2022

Extended reach

2,682
potential audience

Total likes

13

Video views

243

Mentions per month

Oct 2022 – May 2025

Where it's discussed

  • News27 articles
  • Facebook3 posts
  • X / Twitter2 posts
  • YouTube2 videos
  • Blogs2 articles
  • Bluesky1 posts

AI synopsis

What people are saying

The discussions reflect a moderate appreciation for the research, illustrated by comments like 'shock absorber when pecking,' highlighting curiosity about the bird's anatomy. The tone is straightforward and explanatory, emphasizing the natural shock-absorbing mechanisms, which underscores a shared interest in the biological adaptations described in the publication.

AgreementModerate agreement

The discussion shows general support for the findings, with clarification that the research explains how woodpecker anatomy absorbs shocks during pecking.

InterestModerate interest

Participants show moderate curiosity, referencing the intriguing structural aspects without deep technical analysis.

EngagementModerate engagement

Responses involve some elaboration, such as explaining the function of the hyoid apparatus, but remain relatively surface-level.

ImpactModerate impact

The conversation highlights the relevance of the study to understanding biological shock absorption, implying a modest but meaningful impact.

Abstract in brief

  • The study investigates the unique structure and mechanical properties of the woodpecker's hyoid apparatus, revealing a complex design with stiff cores and more flexible outer shells that help absorb impacts during pecking.
  • High-resolution imaging and nanoindentation tests showed that different sections of the hyoid bones have varying flexibility, particularly the posterior region, which is highly flexible to dissipate energy and protect the brain.
  • These structural insights not only enhance understanding of how woodpeckers withstand extreme forces but also have potential applications in designing impact-absorbing materials and structures inspired by their natural adaptations.

Top posts

Most liked on X and Bluesky
citrushark
@citrushark · X

#FactFriday woodpecker tongues and hyoid apparatus wrap around the skull and act as a shock absorber when pecking. https://t.co/Jfdv9wCDwl https://t.co/JAwdC1LU2s

Oct 28, 2022 · 3 likes · 1 share · 1,218 followers View post →
Ioana Patringenaru
@ioanapatrin.bsky.social · Bluesky

Paper here: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27000554/

May 28, 2025 · 1 like View post →

All mentions

Ioana Patringenaru
@ioanapatrin.bsky.social · Bluesky

Paper here: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27000554/

May 28, 2025 · 1 like View post →
citrushark
@citrushark · X

RT @citrushark: #FactFriday woodpecker tongues and hyoid apparatus wrap around the skull and act as a shock absorber when pecking. https://…

Oct 29, 2022 · 1 share · 1,218 followers View post →
citrushark
@citrushark · X

#FactFriday woodpecker tongues and hyoid apparatus wrap around the skull and act as a shock absorber when pecking. https://t.co/Jfdv9wCDwl https://t.co/JAwdC1LU2s

Oct 28, 2022 · 3 likes · 1 share · 1,218 followers View post →