Date of Award

2015

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Thesis

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Shelley Etnier

Abstract

Birds are an interesting field of study for a number of reasons, many of which are related to conflicting evolutionary demands. Birds are required to produce more lift than the downward force of gravity acting upon them. To this end birds have evolved in a number of ways, both in mass reduction and increased lift production. This paper looks into different variables associated with contrasting styles of flight, and how morphological differences allow for these different styles to occur, as well as variables associated with weight minimization.

Included in

Ornithology Commons

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