Gross Morphometrical Studies on Pectoral Limb of Pariah Kite (Milvus migrans)

Abstract

The fore limb or pectoral limb of Pariah kite (Milvus migrans) was studied for gross morphometry. It was procured from Department of Wildlife Health and Management, Veterinary College, Jabalpur, (M.P.), India. The pectoral limb of Pariah kite was comprised of following bones; Humerus, Radius and Ulna, Carpals, Carpometacapus and Digits. Humerus was longest and largest of all bones of fore limb. The proximal extremity was larger and more flattened craniocaudally than distal extremity. The radius was smaller and thinner than the ulna. Both the bones were separated by wide interosseus space proximally and narrow space distally. The outer surface of the shaft had a series of small bony projections which represented points of attachment for secondary feathers of wing.