A comparative study of avian pes morphotypes, and the functional implications of Australian raptor pedal flexibility

摘要: The hind limbs and feet of birds are the primary structures used for important tasks such as perching (e.g. Passeriformes), food procurement diurnal nocturnal raptors) object manipulation Psittaciformes). Birds prey or ‘raptors’ in particular rely heavily on their to hunt capture prey, with toes equipped sharply curved talons facilitate restraint, prevent escape, fatally wound prey. We hypothesise that raptors, being more reliant digits capture, will have greater pedal flexibility when compared non-raptorial groups. analysed across four avian morphotypes (anisodactyl, zygodactyl, facultative raptorial) representing both raptor non-raptor groups by measuring maximum angle divarication between Dᵢᵢ, Dᵢᵢᵢ, Dᵢᵥ. anisodactyl morphotype (Corvidae) had lowest measurements (min. 29°; max. 88°), zygodactyl (Cacatuidae) widest minimum digit 115°; 166°). (Pandionidae, Strigidae, Tytonidae) higher than morphotype. Within morphotype, we found raptorial range motion (76°) other morphotypes. Further, within group, there was a clear separation particularly dietary specialists generalists. increased raptors could be shaped physical adaptation predatory behaviours choices.