TOEFL READING COMPREHENSION VIII

 

The Study of Birds.

The study of birds is called ornithology. Ornithologists study the behavior, anatomy, and evolution of birds. They also study the ecology of birds, which is how birds interact with their environment.

One of the most interesting things about birds is their diversity. There are over 10,000 species of birds in the world, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some birds are small enough to fit in your hand, while others are large enough to weigh over 100 pounds. Some birds can fly, while others cannot.

Birds are found on every continent except Antarctica. They live in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, mountains, and even cities. Birds play an important role in the ecosystem. They help to control insect populations, and they also disperse seeds.

Ornithologists use a variety of methods to study birds. They observe birds in the wild, they collect specimens, and they conduct experiments. They also use technology, such as radio telemetry, to track the movements of birds.

Ornithological research has helped us to understand the behavior, ecology, and evolution of birds. This research has also helped us to conserve birds and their habitats.

Questions:

1. What is ornithology?

1. The study of birds

2. The study of the behavior of birds

3. The study of the ecology of birds

4. All of the above.

Answer:

The answer is (d), all of the above. Ornithology is the study of birds, and it includes the study of their behavior, ecology, and evolution.

2. What is one of the most interesting things about birds?

1. Their diversity

2. Their ability to fly

3. Their importance to the ecosystem

4. All of the above

Answer:

The answer is (d), all of the above. Birds are diverse, they can fly, and they are important to the ecosystem.

3. What are some of the methods that ornithologists use to study birds?

1. Observation

2. Collection of specimens

3. Experimentation

4. Radio telemetry.

Answer:

The answer is (d), all of the above. Ornithologists use a variety of methods to study birds, including observation, collection of specimens, experimentation, and radio telemetry.

4. How has ornithological research helped us to understand birds?

1. It has helped us to understand their behavior.

2. It has helped us to understand their ecology.

3. It has helped us to understand their evolution.

4. All of the above.

Answer:

The answer is (d), all of the above. Ornithological research has helped us to understand the behavior, ecology, and evolution of birds.