BIO 554/754
Ornithology

Toes


In all birds, the front toes are inserted on the metatarsus at the same level, but the position of the hind toe (hallux) varies.
 
 

Incumbent: the hallux is inserted on the metatarsus at the level of the other toes.
Drawing of incumbent toes
Elevated: the hallux is higher on the metatarsus so that its tip does not reach the ground, as in a rail.
Drawing of an elevated hallux


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