http://www.ck12.org Chapter 12. Understanding Biodiversity: Animals: Birds
Evolution
Birds evolved from winged Theropod (carnivorous) dinosaurs that were less advanced in flying and walking because
of the thin layer of skin connecting the forelimbs and the legs. Birds are a type of reptile, but are warm blooded.
Ecology
The peregrine falcon’s carnivorous diet consists of small mammals and birds. It uses several types of trees for
nesting and usually nests in tall trees. In urban environments it can nest on rooftops, windowsills, trees, and other
high places. The peregrine falcon’s diet consists of small birds such as pigeons, crows, etc. and small mammals such
as rabbits and mice. It’s reproductive maturity is at 1-3 years of age. It lives to about age 15 in the wild.
Anatomy and Physiology
The peregrine falcon is a two-legged vertebrate with limbs modified for flight. The feathers are made of keratin
and wear down easily and become replaced. The feathers also are important for display, communication, flight,
and insulation. Feathers are modified scales developed from previous flying reptiles. Contour feathers are for basic
flying, rectrices are the tail feathers, and the remiges are the wing feathers. All birds have skeletal modifications for
flight including hollow bones, lightweight skeletons, and fused clavicles (acts like a spring during flight). Birds have
to deal with weight, lift, drag, and thrust. Birds have a four-chambered heart and two cycles of respiration (mammals
only have one respiration cycle). Both respiration cycles happen at the same time. The crop is the enlarged portion
of the bird’s esophagus that can store food and is used to feed baby birds. Birds have a gizzard (muscular stomach)
which is used to grind food.
Behavior
The peregrine falcon is non-aggressive toward humans and animals that aren’t prey. This animal is solitary except
during mating seasons, when they mate, then care for young. They kill small animals like rabbits for food.
References
- http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/EndangeredResources/Animals.asp?mode=detail&SpecCode=ABNKD06070
- http://www.ck12.org/biology/Bird-Evolution/lesson/Bird-Evolution/
- http://www.eol.org
- http://www.fi.edu/learn/heart/blood/red.html
- http://www.naturebytesvideo.com
- Bailey, Dave. "What Is a Bird?" San Diego: Mission Trails Regional Park Trail Guide Training Program, 2008
Attribution
Authors
- Drake Matthew Borman