What is one thing humans, birds and reptiles have in common

In a new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, researchers reveal that birds and reptiles are incredibly similar to humans in one surprising way: shedding tears.

As the scientists explained, the composition of human tears closely mimics what is found in reptile species, including crocodiles and birds such as parrots.

According to CNN reports, the study was conducted in Brazil, where scientists collected tear samples from a variety of different animals including hawks, parrots, land and marine turtles. When compared to human tears, they weren't exactly the same, but they were much closer than scientists had previously expected.

Arian Uriah, lead author of the study, said in a statement: “Although birds and reptiles have different structures responsible for producing tears, some components of tears are present in concentrations similar to those found in human tears, but the crystal structures were organized in different ways so that Ensures eye health and balance with different environments. "

Additionally, characteristic changes in the dry tear crystal structures of aquatic animals such as sea turtles indicate that their tears are customized to match their humid environment. The researchers suggest that the adjustment in tears may not always have natural triggers, and that pollution may also play a large role in that change.

"Tears are the most vulnerable fluids in the environment," Uriah said. "So amid slight adjustments in the environment the tears will change by nature. For example, in humans, we know that people who smoke there will be some change in their tears, and if we adjust the polluted environment in which we live. In it, we will change who our tears are without even realizing it. "

Therefore, our better understanding of the components of other species' tears could lead to advances in both veterinary medicines or even provide hints to scientists on how to make treatments for the human eye more effective.

In the end, however, research is likely to benefit animals the most, especially those that have been found to suffer from some of the eye diseases that polluted nature has caused them.