Birds are known for their ability to tolerate the heat of chili peppers, which is due to the fact that they lack a receptor called TRPV1 in their mouths that detects heat and pain, making them immune to the fiery burn of capsaicin. In fact, some birds, such as the Sayaca Tanager, have been observed feeding on chili peppers without any apparent discomfort.
The chili peppers of the world are graded with something called Scoville Heat Units, or SHU. Jalapeño peppers usually come in between 2,500 to 8,000 SHU, and further up the scale, habaneros weigh in at 100,000 to 350,000, which is VERY HOT. The Carolina Reaper has an unimaginable grading of 1,569,300 SHU.
It is worth noting that not all birds are immune to the heat of chili peppers. For example, chickens and turkeys are not able to tolerate the heat of capsaicin as well as other birds.
In summary, birds are able to tolerate the heat of chili peppers due to the absence of TRPV1 receptors in their mouths. This allows them to consume chili peppers without experiencing the burning sensation that humans feel. However, not all birds are immune to the heat of chili peppers, and some species may experience discomfort when consuming them.
Text credit: Earth Unreal
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