Program Results

Introduction to the event

Few species of birds have evolved with pectinate claws, which are comb-like structures found in each of their feet. Previous studies suggested that the claw is used for removing dirt and debris on the feather. Our hypothesis is that birds with pectinate claws are more effective at cleaning than birds without.

During the trip to the National Museum of Natural History, a comprehensive sample of avian species was collected, encompassing a total of 84 species belonging to 17 distinct families.

Christopher Milensky introduced the bird collection at NMMH