Bird, hindlimb (Gross, Low)

Structure List Femur Tibiotarsus and Fibula Tarsometatarsus Digits

The appendicular skeleton underwent many changes during the transition from water to land. The paired fins transformed into limbs and the girdles strengthened. Body weight could be transferred through these structures to the ground. The limbs are jointed and articulate with the girdle in such a way that they can be rotated forward, the feet placed on the ground, and thrusts developed that advance the body. The hindlimbs of birds are modified for bipedal locomotion.