The Hoatzin of South America

Modern day Hoatzins are large birds 65 centimeters long that are related to chickens. They live in mangrove branches in the Orinoco and Amazon Basins. I predict that in the future, the rainforest will turn into shrubland. If high rates of deforestation and lower levels of rain persist, this prediction is likely to occur. In the future, Hoatzins we know today will adapt to have feet similar to those of an Ostrich. Ostrich feet are designed to run quickly on land. Hoatzins will also become brown and black on the outsides of their bodies. These colors are great for blending in with shrubs and dirt on shrublands. Ostrich-Foot Hoatzins will burrow underground to make nests. Young are hatched from eggs in underground burrows. The young go out of their safe burrow once a day for light. This ensures their eyes will adapt in a timely fashion to prepare for adulthood.