AVIS-IBIS

Birds of Indian Subcontinent

Comparative anatomy of head and neck in the Spoon-billed sandpiper, Eurynorhynchus pygmeus and its allies

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1971
Authors:Burton, PJK
Journal:Journal of Zoology
Volume:163
Issue:2
Date Published:1971
ISBN Number:1469-7998
Keywords:Calidris, Calidris ruficollis, Eurynorhynchus, Eurynorhynchus pygmeus, Limicola, Limicola falcinellus, Scolopacidae, Xenus, Xenus cinereus
Abstract:Head and neck anatomy is described and compared in the Spoon-billed sandpiper Eurynorhynchus pygmeus, the Rufous-necked stint Calidris ruficollis and the Broad-billed sandpiper Limicola falcinellus (Calidritinae). Eurynorhynchus pygmeus closely resembles Calidris ruficollis (typical of the subfamily) in most aspects other than bill form. Information on feeding behaviour is summarized. It is concluded that the expanded bill of Eurynorhynchus pygmeus functions chiefly to increase its capacity for tactile detection of prey. The suggestion of close relationship between Eurynorhynchus pygmeus and Limicola falcinellus is rejected.
URL:http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7998.1971.tb04529.x
Short Title:Journal of Zoology
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith