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Using the graph paper, create a graph of your data for 1 beak type. Each group member should make a graph of the different beak
types used.
Test Your Understanding: Evolution of Finches (Student handout)
Name: Class: Date:
Beak Type Larvae Ants Worms Caterpillars Berries
Tweezers
Forks
Popsickle Sticks
Toothpicks
Clothes Pin
1. Which beak type was more likely to be a generalist? Defend your answer in 2-3 sentences. (compare the results of beak type
amongst your group)
2. Which beak type was most likely to be a specialist? Defend your answer in 2–3 sentences. (compare the results of beak type
amongst your group)
3. An old saying claims that "a jack of all trades is a master of none." Explain this concept with reference to the bird beaks.
4. How does competition for a limited food resource affect the fitness of an organism? (What happens to those who lose and
why?)
5. Where would you expect to find more species? In a complex environment with many food types, or in a simple environment
with only a few food types? Why?
6. Hummingbirds and moths both have long tongues specialized for drinking nectar from tube shaped flowers, but
hummingbirds are active in the daytime, while moths generally come out only at night. Do they compete? Explain.
