Biology
The Role of Oxidative Stress in Aging and Lifespan Variation Across Bird Species
Quick fact
Despite having higher metabolic rates and body temperatures than mammals, many birds have longer lifespans and lower levels of oxidative damage in their cells, suggesting that they have evolved superior antioxidant defenses or more efficient mitochondrial function.
Why this is interesting
Birds can live decades longer than mammals of the same body size—some parrots reach 80 years. What protects their cells from the wear and tear we associate with aging?