Birds lay colorful eggs

A bird's egg in Central and South America has a natural iridescent shell, with color changing from different angles.

Tinamou's blue egg.(Photo: Discovery News)

According to Discovery News, this is the tinamou (Tinamidae), originating in Central and South America. They are the size and shape of a small ostrich bird, mainly living in tropical forests.

Tinamou eggshell is glowing. This is the most colorful and shiny bird in the world. Iridescent emitting characteristics of green eggs are considered an optical effect that has not been previously recorded in poultry species.

The smooth outer cuticle is a trait that makes the eggshell shiny. These include calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate and possibly organic compounds such as proteins and pigments.

Scientists hypothesize that eye-catching colors make it easier for tinamou to find eggs, when they accidentally get into other bird's nest. The reflective surface of the shell can also prevent solar radiation from affecting the embryo.