Insurance Policy: Two Eggs, One Survivor - featuring Richard Dawkins

Richard Dawkins explains how Nazca Boobies, Blue Footed Boobies and Gannetts all lay two eggs, but usually only rear one chick. This evolved adaptation may seem cruel to us, but the genes for this insurance policy get passed on through the surviving chicks to future generations.

"In May 2007 Josh and I were among those who went to Galapagos with a large group from the Center for Inquiry. As we walked with the guided parties over the islands, Josh took every opportunity to film the wildlife. Occasionally he would turn the camera on me, and I would ad lib a few words about whatever animals we were looking at. These 'vignettes' were unscripted and unrehearsed, and there was no time for any "Take 2" repetitions, because the guided walk was moving on."

- Richard Dawkins

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