BASTARD WING Meaning and
Definition
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The term "bastard wing" usually refers to a specific anatomical feature found in birds, particularly in certain species of birds of prey and falcons. Also known as the "alula," the bastard wing is a specialized group of feathers located on the bird's wings.
The bastard wing is a series of small, jointed feathers extending from the bird's hand or "forearm" area, forming a distinct trapezoidal shape when extended. These feathers are typically stiffer compared to the other feathers on the wing and are primarily used for flight control and maneuverability.
Functionally, the bastard wing acts as a bird's equivalent of an aircraft's slats or flaps. By manipulating the positioning of the bastard wing during flight, birds can alter the shape and lift characteristics of their wings. When the bastard wing is extended, it helps to increase lift and reduces air turbulence, enabling birds to fly more slowly and more precisely. Conversely, retracting the bastard wing reduces the wing's surface area, increasing speed and maneuverability.
Given its importance in flight control, the bastard wing plays a vital role in a bird's hunting and feeding behaviors. It allows them to navigate through tight spaces, change directions swiftly to capture prey, and maintain greater stability during flight. Understanding the significance of the bastard wing in avian flight is crucial for ornithologists, who study the complex adaptations and evolutionary strategies of birds.
Common Misspellings for BASTARD WING
- vastard wing
- nastard wing
- hastard wing
- gastard wing
- bzstard wing
- bsstard wing
- bwstard wing
- bqstard wing
- baatard wing
- baztard wing
- baxtard wing
- badtard wing
- baetard wing
- bawtard wing
- basrard wing
- basfard wing
- basgard wing
- basyard wing
- bas6ard wing
Etymology of BASTARD WING
The term "bastard wing" has its origins in ornithology, specifically referring to a particular morphological feature of birds called the alula. The alula is a small group of feathers located at the base of the primary flight feathers on the leading edge of a bird's wing. When a bird is in flight, it can extend or retract this group of feathers to adjust airflow and provide additional stability.
The term "bastard wing" emerged in the early 18th century, and its etymology relates to the unique position of the alula. It was called the "bastard wing" because, unlike the other primary feathers, it does not correspond to a finger bone of the bird's wing as the other feathers do. Therefore, it was considered an unusual or "bastardized" structure.
Similar spelling words for BASTARD WING
- bastardise,
- bastardised,
- bastardization,
- bastard indigo,
- bastardly,
- bastard title,
- bastardize,
- Bastard Ridley,
- bastardized,
- bastardisation,
- bastard turtle.
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