When Scientists “Discover” What Indigenous People Have Known For Centuries

Our knowledge of what animals do when humans aren’t around has steadily increased over the last 50 years. For example, we know now that animals use tools in their daily lives. Chimps use twigs to fish for termites; sea otters break open shellfish on rocks they selected; octopi carry coconut shell halves to later use as shelters. But the latest discovery has taken this assessment to new heights—literally.

A team of researchers led by Mark Bonta and Robert Gosford in northern Australia has documented kites and falcons, colloquially termed “firehawks,” intentionally carrying burning sticks to spread fire. While it has long been known that birds will take advantage of natural fires that cause insects, rodents and reptiles to flee and thus increase feeding opportunities, that they would intercede to spread fire to unburned locales is astounding.

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(James Padolsey/Unsplash)

A team of researchers in northern Australia have documented kites and falcons, “firehawks,” intentionally carrying burning sticks to spread fire: It is just one example of western science catching up to Indigenous Traditional Knowledge.

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Eyewitnesses report that kites and falcons in Australia deliberately spread wildfires in order to flush out prey.

 

Aboriginal legend has it that the Black Kite (Milvans migrans) is the 'Firehawk'.

There is anecdotal and ethno-ornithological evidence suggesting that Black Kites and Brown Falcons start fires! Fire in the tropical savannah of Australia's Top End is frequent and destructive, though a necessary part of the ecology.

Black Kites, Whistling Kites, Brown Falcons opportunistically prey on insects and small mammals fleeing from the fire.

 

Firebirds in action.