In barn owls, the most supportive pairs are the best at leading young to flight

Parenting in the barn owl is actually pretty close to home: a study published in iScience deciphers how Tyto alba organizes itself to raise its brood on the Swiss Plateau. Using miniature sensors installed on some seven pairs, the researchers tracked their comings and goings in great detail, revealing a permanent negotiation between the two parents, with flexible cooperation that adjusts according to the night, the hunt and the conditions. Each one adapts its effort, and the female can increase hers when the male brings in less, until ensuring the essentials for the chicks' survival.