Ask A Scientist© Zoology Archive

name       eileen
status     educator
age        50s

Question - I read the answer to the question about duck's feet and 
have been told that this is because ducks actually produce a form of 
ethylene glycol in their feet. Have I been taken or does someone know if 
this is true? I have eaten duck feet in Chinese restaurants and they are 
definitely sweet ( as is ethylene glycol) Any idea?
Eileen

Question in archives- Why don't birds' feet freeze in winter?
I'm not sure about all birds, but ducks have what is known as a counter
current heat exchange mechanism in their legs and feet. Warmth flows from
more warmth to less warmth naturally. As blood flows down the legs from the
body it meets with colder blood coming back up and the warmth flows into the
colder part of the foot.

K. Van Hoeck
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