BIRDS- SPECIES ADAPTATONS

Question 1

Why can some birds fly and other can’t

Answer 1

Non-flight birds lack the keel which anchors the pectoral muscle and supra practise is muscle required for flight
Better flier= larger keel

Question 2

What is the function of the wing

Answer 2

To provide lift and thrust for flight

Question 3

Describe the structure of the wings of the bird

Answer 3

• scapula, clavicle , Corcovado all articulations with the humerus
• wing is made up of humerus, ulna, radius, manus
• fused carpal and metacarpal bones = metacarpal bone
• alumnae digit (thumb) and the mmajor 2 phalanges
• feathers =- fanned to provide additional lift

Question 4

Identify species specific adaptations of birds for locomotion

Answer 4

Light, compact, strong skeleton for flight
Pneumatised bones (air filled) for flight
1st 4 thoracic vertebrae are fused- provides rigid structure for the forces encountered during flight
Left and right clavical fused ( furcula)- acts as a spring storing energy during flight
Feathers are fanned to provide additional lift

Question 5

What is pinioning

Answer 5

Involves cutting off the manus to prevent flight - banned on welfare grounds in commercial farmed poultry

Question 6

What is braiding

Answer 6

Involves holding the menus in a flexed position with leather straps (was a method to stop flight by game farmers )

Question 7

Which muscle is needed for the down beat of the wing in birds

Answer 7

Pectoralis

Question 8

Which muscle is responsible for the elevation of the humerus

Answer 8

Supracoracoideus muscle

Question 9

Identify other professionals supporting the MSK care of birds

Answer 9

Specialist poultry practises 
Specialist avian practises 
British veterinary poultry association 
British veterinary zoological society 
RSPCA