In 2016, when Juan Diego Ibáñez-Álamo at the University of Granada in Spain met Kaspar Delhey, an expert in bird coloration at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, a new collaboration was born.
“He suggested we study whether urbanisation is associated with differences in bird coloration,” Delhey said.
Many studies have investigated how urban noise has been changing the way city birds talk to each other. But scientists know little about what urbanisation is doing to the way birds look.
The collaboration soon blossomed into the world’s first large-scale, global study of how urban environments can control which birds — and which colours — can thrive in cities.
In a new study, Delhey, Ibáñez-Álamo, and their colleagues reported what they found when they analysed colour data from nearly all bird species around the world alongside a reference database.
The results were unexpected.
“Contrary to expectations, bird species that do well in cities tend to be quite colourful,” Delhey said. “Some of the least successful species were largely brown, colours that we humans often consider dull or cryptic.”
Published on April 4 in Ecology Letters, the study paper revealed that urban birds that are able to lead fuller lives are also more likely to sport blue, grey, and black plumage.
The findings challenge some long-held assumptions in urban ecology.
Breaking through
“If you look at a city park, you may find fewer species than in a nearby forest. But those species tend to be more colourful,” Ibáñez-Álamo said.
However, the urban colour homogenisation hypothesis holds that cities render bird colours more uniform. “We tested this idea at a global scale and found it doesn’t hold up: once you account for species richness, cities actually have more colour-diverse bird communities,” he added.
Colour differences between males and females birds are often due to sexual selection: males evolve brighter plumage to attract mates or assert their dominance. Females may be more cryptically coloured because they often incubate the eggs and take care of the offspring. “It has been suggested that in urban environments, sexual selection may be weakened, and therefore the difference between male and female colors should be reduced. We, however, do not find any evidence,” Delhey said.
“Bird colours vary dramatically around the globe alongside variations in climate, habitat, diet, migration, type of mating system, whether they live in groups or not, etc.,” Delhey said.
Some colours, like yellow or red, are derived from carotenoids in food while the blacks and greys are the result of melanin.
Darker-coloured birds may have an edge in polluted environments, where melanin could bind to toxins. But the strongest and most consistent pattern, the researchers found, was the decline of browns.
Being seen is dangerous
In their study, the researchers found that successful city birds are more likely to be colourful while avoiding brown.
Brown colours are often found in species that live in the understory of forests, which is similarly coloured. The green spaces are different in cities. “Even if you have a park, you also have a lot of asphalt or concrete, which changes the brown background that you will have in a natural forest with dying leaves and sticks and even the soil,” Ibáñez-Álamo said.
Brown is considered to be a cryptic colour yet it appears to lose its ecological value in human-built environments, which are often much more complex than forests. The researchers don’t yet know why city birds prefer to be more colourful. One possibility is that in urban environments, predation risk is often lower, potentially allowing birds to be more expressive with their plumage rather than lay low.
According to Ibáñez-Álamo, the ‘why’ remains an open question for now.
Factors such as predator density, availability of food, light conditions, and nesting space all interact with plumage colour. In some regions, researchers have found that fewer predators has meant local birds could afford to be more conspicuous. In others, food scarcity has favoured birds that are less showy.
Urbanisation filters species
Delhey said urban ecology is becoming a kind of evolutionary laboratory. As more species travel to parts of the world they haven’t been to before, the ways in which they’re adapting — from song pitch to feather hue — are offering researchers insights into their survival as much as life’s astonishing plasticity.
Even so, or maybe for this reason, more research is required. “Any differences in coloration we detect are rather subtle. We’ll always find exceptions,” Delhey said.
Even as researchers delve into the ‘why’, it remains that cities — by selecting for certain traits, environments, and now colours — are nudging evolution in slow, quiet increments in possibly new directions.
The new study itself has far-reaching implications. “You might think that cities are just grey and lifeless, but in fact they host a different kind of avian beauty,” Ibáñez-Álamo said.
As biodiversity declines in many parts of the world, both the ecological and the cultural values attached to urban wildlife become more significant. Understanding the patterns therein can help make cities more hospitable for a wider range of species.
“We cannot really tear apart cause and effect because it’s a relative study. There could be other factors that we have not considered,” Ibáñez-Álamo said. “I think that the next step will be to try to see whether other organisms, let’s say insects or mammals, follow the same patterns.”
Arthropods, he said by way of example, are tremendously diverse. “And they also suffer from a reduction in the city, in urban areas. It will be super-interesting to identify whether they follow the same patterns.”
Monika Mondal is a freelance science and environment journalist.
Looking to upgrade your laundry routine without breaking the bank? The 7kg washing machine segment offers a perfect balance of capacity and performance for small to medium-sized households. With trusted brands like Samsung, LG, Godrej, Whirlpool, and IFB offering reliable, feature-rich models, you’ll find a host of energy-efficient and user-friendly options to suit your budget and space. The Amazon Summer Sale 2025 ends tomorrow, so don’t miss out!
Grab these washing machine deals before the Amazon Summer Sale 2025 ends today.
Godrej’s WTEON ALP 70 5.0 FDTN GPGR is a fully-automatic 7 kg top-load washer featuring Tidal Wash Technology and Turbo 6 Pulsator for thorough yet gentle cleaning. Its Zero Pressure Technology ensures fast fills, while the Auto Balance System stabilises the drum for quieter operation.
The advanced digital display offers user-friendly control over 12 wash programmes, and its 5-Star energy rating plus 720 RPM spin speed deliver efficient, speedy cycles with in-built soak and anti-rust features.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers find it smooth, user-friendly, and ideal for small families. However, noise, installation, and water wastage receive mixed or negative feedback.
Why choose this product?
It’s simple and reliable, but may vibrate, waste water, and require proper installation checks.
This Samsung washing machine blends EcoBubble and Bubble Soak Technology to penetrate detergent deep into fabrics, delivering up to 45 per cent better fabric care. Its Hygiene Steam cycle eradicates 99.9 per cent of germs, while the Digital Inverter motor ensures whisper-quiet, energy-savvy performance.
With 12 wash programmes, a 1200 RPM spin speed and a rust-proof cabinet, this 7 kg front-loader adapts to every laundry need, making it a standout during the Amazon Summer Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise its quiet, user-friendly performance and value for money. Build quality and installation experiences, however, receive mixed feedback.
Why choose this product?
Great for busy homes, but check the unit on delivery and confirm installation service quality.
In the Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025, LG’s FHB1207Z2M emerges as a top pick thanks to its Direct Drive motor and Hygiene Steam cycle that banishes allergens. Its 6 Motion DD system manoeuvres the drum in six distinct ways for a fabric-friendly cleanse, while the integrated heater tackles stubborn stains.
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What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers like its washing performance, quietness, and water efficiency. Build quality and drum size, however, receive mixed reactions.
Why choose this product?
Ideal for small families seeking a budget-friendly, quiet washer with efficient water use.
Godrej’s WS EDGE CLS 70 semi-automatic top-loader uses Active Soak Technology and a 460 W PowerMaxx motor to tackle heavy laundry loads effortlessly. The storm-force pulsator, three water levels and ribbed walls provide thorough cleaning, while its rust-proof polypropylene body ensures long-term durability.
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What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise its quality, ease of use, and washing performance, though many report issues with the dryer functionality.
Why choose this product?
Great value washer with reliable performance, but dryer issues may be a concern.
Check out more washing machine deals on Amazon Sale 2025
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Whirlpool’s MAGIC CLEAN RYL SRS 7.0 is a 7 kg semi-automatic top-loader powered by a 1400 RPM motor that spins clothes nearly dry in moments. It’s unique Ace Wash Station lets you pre-treat stains precisely, while the spin-shower function and rat-protection mesh ensure hygienic cycles every time.
Rated 5 Star for efficiency and backed by a four-year comprehensive warranty, it proved exceptionally popular in the Amazon Summer Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its wash quality, ease of use, and value for money, especially for small families. However, build quality, noise levels, and the small outlet pipe receive mixed feedback.
Why choose this product?
A lightweight, user-friendly washer that performs well for basic needs, though some quality and noise concerns may arise.
LG’s P7020NGAZ semi-automatic washer combines Rat-Away Technology and Wind Jet Dry to reduce moisture in every load. Its collar scrubber and three wash programmes handle everything from delicates to heavy fabrics, while the 1300 RPM spin cycle speeds up drying.
Built on a rust-free plastic base with anti-vibration feet and a lint collector, this 7 kg, 5 Star machine simplifies laundry days, especially during the Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the washing machine’s solid build, value for money, and effective cleaning, especially its quick 15-minute wash. It’s easy to use and well-sized for a family of four, but the noise level and drying function receive mixed reviews.
Why choose this product?
A reliable washer with strong washing performance and family-friendly capacity—ideal if mobility and perfect drying aren’t top priorities.
Amazon Sale 2025 spotlighted Samsung’s WA70A4002GS/TL, a fully-automatic top-load washer featuring a Diamond Drum and centre-jet pulsator for gentle cleaning. Its inverter motor delivers dependable performance, and the 680 RPM spin speed suits smaller loads.
With six wash programmes, rat-mesh protection and a rust-proof body, this 7 kg machine balances affordability and durability, making it an excellent choice for compact spaces and modest budgets.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers describe it as a reliable performer with multiple wash programmes and quiet operation, making it easy to use and good value. However, installation and water consumption reviews are mixed.
Why choose this product?
A dependable machine for daily use with versatile features, though installation service and water efficiency may vary.
Samsung’s WT70M3000UU/TL semi-automatic top-loader features Turbo Dry Technology and a dual-storm pulsator that streamlines both washing and drying. The 1300 RPM spin cycle removes excess moisture swiftly, and its rat-mesh protection plus caster wheels add convenience.
With three wash programmes and push-button controls, this 7 kg washer combines practicality and efficiency, earning high praise during the Amazon Summer Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the washing machine’s performance, ease of use, and value for money, but the small dryer tub and issues with the drying fan are concerns. Build quality receives mixed feedback.
Why choose this product?
Ideal for small families, offering good washing performance, but be aware of potential dryer functionality issues and build quality concerns.
IFB’s TL701MG1 employs an AI-powered algorithm to detect fabric type and tailor wash actions, optimising water level, duration and drum movement for each load. Its Triadic Pulsator and Crescent Moon drum deliver deep cleaning while protecting fibres, and the Aqua Energie device softens water to boost detergent performance.
Rated 5 Star and backed by a ten-year spares support, it represents intelligent laundry innovation during the Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the washing machine’s value for money and ease of use, but there are mixed reviews on its cleaning effectiveness, noise, and water drainage issues. Installation service also receives negative feedback.
Why choose this product?
Good value for money with easy-to-use features, but be cautious about potential washing performance, noise, drainage issues, and installation problems.
Whirlpool’s MAGIC CLEAN GENX 7.0 top-loader features ZPF Technology for rapid fills and Dry Tap Sensing to prevent dry-tap damage, making laundry hassle-free. It offers 12 wash programmes, including stainwash and aqua-store, and a 740 RPM spin speed for reliable drying.
The stainless-steel drum ensures durability, while smart sensors adjust cycles intelligently, qualities that made it a bestseller in the Amazon Sale 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers find the washing machine to be well-built and easy to use, but there are mixed reviews regarding its washability, noise levels, and performance. Installation experiences are also varied.
Why choose this product?
Good value for money with easy-to-use controls, but be mindful of potential wash quality, noise, and performance issues, as well as mixed installation experiences.
Amazon Summer Sale 2025 credit card offers and discoutns
During the sale, shoppers can take advantage of exciting deals and benefits. Enjoy an instant 10% discount on HDFC Bank credit cards, no-cost EMIs, and 5% cashback for Amazon Pay ICICI credit card users. Plus, attractive exchange offers make upgrading even more affordable.
Factors to consider when buying 7kg washing machine
Type: Choose between front load and top load depending on your space, convenience and efficiency preferences.
Energy efficiency: Look for machines with high star ratings to reduce electricity and water consumption.
Wash Programmes: Opt for models offering a variety of wash cycles suitable for different fabric types.
Spin speed: Higher RPMs result in faster drying times which is useful in humid or rainy climates.
Build quality and features: Durable drums, inverter motors and smart features add to performance and longevity.
Which is better for a 7kg capacity, front-load or top load washing machine?
Front load machines are generally more energy and water efficient, offering a gentler wash and better cleaning. However, top load machines are easier to load and more affordable, making them ideal for users seeking convenience.
Is a 7kg washing machine enough for a family of four?
Yes, a 7kg washing machine can handle daily laundry needs for a small to medium-sized family. It accommodates around 3–4 outfits per person or a medium load of bedding, making it a practical and efficient choice.
How important is the spin speed in a 7kg washing machine?
Spin speed determines how dry clothes come out after washing. A higher RPM means better water extraction and shorter drying times, especially useful during monsoons or in humid climates. Look for models with adjustable spin settings.
The Amazon Summer Sale 2025 ends tomorrow, so it’s the perfect time to grab top deals on 7kg washing machines before the offers expire.
Can I wash blankets in a 7kg washing machine?
Yes, lightweight single blankets can be washed, but heavier ones may require a larger capacity.
Are there inverter models available in 7kg washing machines?
Yes, many brands offer inverter models which are energy-efficient and operate quietly.
Do 7kg washing machines support hot water wash?
Some models come with built-in heaters or hot wash options, especially in front load variants.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Clean the drum and detergent tray monthly to maintain hygiene and prevent odour build-up.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Power cuts during summer can be a real hassle, especially when fans and appliances stop working. A good inverter battery ensures your home stays powered and comfortable at all times. The Amazon Summer Sale 2025 ends tomorrow, and it is the perfect reason to pick up a high-performance inverter battery at a discounted price. Top brands like Luminous, Genus, Livguard, and OKAYA are offering great deals, making it easier to find a battery that fits your needs. These batteries come with advanced features like fast charging, longer backup time, and low maintenance.
Last day of Amazon Summer Sale 2025: Top Deals on the best inverter batteries
Built to handle Indian power conditions, they provide stable and reliable support for all kinds of households. From running lights and fans to keeping your devices charged, a dependable inverter battery is a smart investment. The sale makes it even more worthwhile. Explore the best deals and bring home the best inverter battery to enjoy peace of mind during every power outage this summer and enjoy BIG savings with the Amazon Sale 2025.
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Best Luminous inverter battery at up to 30% off: Amazon Summer Sale 2025
The Luminous inverter battery is a trusted choice for Indian households. Known for its deep-cycle design and long service life, it works seamlessly with most inverters, especially during extended power cuts. Its rugged tubular plate technology enhances battery life, while the fast-charging capability ensures you’re always ready for an outage.
During the Amazon Sale 2025, the Luminous inverter battery is expected to be available at a discounted price, making it a smart investment for the season. Its low maintenance and excellent build make it easily among the best inverter battery options. Perfect for those who want performance without the hassle, this battery is built to handle Indian conditions with ease. Don’t miss your chance to upgrade your home backup system during the sale.
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Best Genus inverter battery at up to 50% off: Amazon Summer Sale 2025
Genus is steadily earning its place as a top performer in the inverter battery category. Built for Indian power conditions, Genus batteries come with a reliable tubular plate structure, designed to handle high-charge cycles and frequent outages. What makes it stand out is the intelligent design that ensures quicker charging and longer power backup. Ideal for both urban and semi-urban homes, the Genus inverter battery is durable, leak-resistant, and has a superior acid volume that extends performance life.
If you’re planning to shop during the Amazon Sale 2025, this might be the perfect opportunity to grab one of the best inverter battery models at a value price. Designed with a focus on long-term efficiency, the Genus battery is great for users who want a worry-free power solution. From fans to routers, it keeps your home running smoothly without compromise. A dependable option for everyday use, it ticks all the right boxes in performance and durability.
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Best OKAYA inverter battery at up to 45% off: Amazon Summer Sale 2025
Choose OKAYA if you value a no-nonsense, high-performance battery that lives up to its name. This Amazon sale 2025 might just be the right time to bring one home. What sets OKAYA apart is its attention to safety and power efficiency, making it a top contender among the best inverter battery options. With long service life, consistent output, and resistance to voltage fluctuations, OKAYA batteries are engineered to thrive in tough Indian conditions.
They support most inverter brands and deliver a worry-free experience through power cuts. OKAYA has long been associated with dependable battery solutions, and its inverter batteries are no exception. Built with tall tubular technology, these batteries offer excellent charge acceptance and long backup durations. The low-maintenance design and robust build make them suitable for high-load applications at home or small businesses.
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Best Livguard inverter battery at up to 45% off: Amazon Summer Sale 2025
For users seeking a modern, efficient battery that’s easy to manage and delivers on its promises, Livguard is a smart pick. With the Amazon Sale 2025, you can get your hands on one of the best inverter battery options in India at a deal that saves you more. Designed using advanced tall tubular technology, Livguard batteries offer high-capacity performance and faster charging cycles.
This brand is gaining popularity for delivering a balance of power, longevity, and affordability. It’s built to handle heavy loads and long backup hours, making it ideal for homes with frequent power outages. Its rugged construction and high water retention help reduce maintenance, which is a plus for busy households. If you want a reliable power backup with innovation at its core, consider the Livguard inverter battery.
The lifespan of an inverter battery typically ranges from 3 to 5 years, depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and battery type.
How do I choose the best inverter battery?
Consider factors like battery capacity, type (tubular or flat plate), brand reputation, warranty, and your power requirements when selecting the best inverter battery.
What is the difference between a tubular and a flat plate battery?
Tubular batteries offer longer lifespan and better performance, especially in high-heat conditions, while flat plate batteries are more affordable but may not last as long.
How often should I maintain my inverter battery?
Regular maintenance, including checking the water levels and cleaning terminals, should be done every 3 to 6 months to ensure the battery works efficiently.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Tom Rubin, OpenAI’s chief of IP and content, speaking at the World News Media Congress in Krakow, shared positive insights about artificial intelligence’s role in the news industry. He stated that news is quite popular on ChatGPT’s search, highlighting how models like ChatGPT help in finding information quickly and with context, compared to traditional search engine results of “ten blue links.”
OpenAI will remain under the control of its non-profit parent(REUTERS)
As reported by Press Gazette, Rubin also described how ChatGPT is now becoming a part of many users’ lives, with more than 500 million active users. These comments come at a time when news organisations are partnering with OpenAI, while some have sued the company for allegedly using their content to train its AI models, including those that power its popular chatbot, ChatGPT.
Rubin says that users want fast and conversational responses in a “conversational and context-aware manner as opposed to the traditional land of an inefficient list of ten blue links.”
For those uninitiated, Search is a new product for the AI giant, with ChatGPT allowing users to search for whatever they like. Now, users can perform searches like, “What did Shah Rukh Khan wear at the Met Gala 2025?” and OpenAI ChatGPT will provide a detailed answer based on what it finds on the internet, pulling from various sources including news articles. These results are contextual answers, and this means, unlike traditional search engines like Google, you may not need to filter through multiple links at all.
Tom Rubin On ChatGPT Search’s Growth
Regarding ChatGPT’s search functionality, Rubin said that while it hasn’t been long since Search debuted, it has been able to offer accurate and useful results to users.. He stated that the search tool has become one of the most important features within ChatGPT. Rubin also added that current affairs are a significant part of the ChatGPT experience.
“While search has only been available for a few months, early signs are promising. Clear attribution and links and the resulting clicks that we’re driving to publisher sites are trending upward month over month,” Rubin added.
Rubin further described how AI is assisting journalism, stating that the news industry has had to reshape itself continually as technology progressed. He shared that newsrooms are now using ChatGPT to help with the journalism process, and “enabling journalists to reach audiences where they are.”
