Bird Maneuvering Flight: Blurred Bodies, Clear Heads

摘要: While useful in describing the efficiency of maneuvering flight, steady-state (i.e., fixed wing) models performance cannot provide insight to efficacy maneuvering, particularly during low-speed flapping flight. Contrasted with airplane-analogous gliding/high speed aerodynamic and biomechanical mechanisms employed by birds at low flight speeds are violent, rapidly alternating forces routinely being developed. The saltatory nature this type results extreme linear angular displacements bird's body; however, isolate their heads from these accelerations cervical reflexes. Experiments pigeons suggest ability visual vestibular systems is critical controlled flight: wearing collars that prohibited neck isolating head induced rolls frequently exhibited (50% flights) a loss and/or horizon were unable maintain