A Comparative Study of the Wing Myology of Certain Passerines

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Abstract
Wing myology of the cardinal (Richmondena cardinalis), the white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), the song sparrow (Melospiza melodia). and the English sparrow (Passer domesticus) was examined. The state of development and function of the wing muscles in the above spp. was noted and compared with the wing muscles as described by other authors for the new world vultures, the woodpeckers, and the raven. Wing myology of the 4 spp. examined was essentially similar. Compared with birds having soaring or gliding flight, the sp. examined had a relative increase in size and power of the musculature, particularly of those muscles which are of importance in flapping flight. Compared with birds having soaring or gliding flight, the sp. examined had a reduction in the number and power of muscles controlling movements of the hand. Thirteen muscles were noted, the differential development or occurrence of which might be of taxonomic value.

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