-In this phylogeny feather pattern on the head is the trait used to separate the sparrows into groups. DNA analysis suggests a different phylogeny that places white-crowned birds and golden-crowned birds more closely together. Therefore, what process results in the striped pattern on the head?

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Convergent evolution is the process where organisms not closely related independently evolve similar traits as a result of having to adapt to similar environments or ecological niches. In this case, the striped pattern on the heads of different sparrow species, which DNA analysis suggests are not as closely related as their physical traits might imply, is an example of convergent evolution.

-In This Phylogeny Feather Pattern on the Head Is the Trait