Ecomorphology and foraging height in the Malagasy endemic Velvet Asity (<i>Philepitta castanea</i>)

Abstract

The ecomorphological adaptations and foraging heights in the endemic Velvet Asity (Philepitta castanea) were studied in Ranomafana rain forest, south-eastern Madagascar, from August to November in 1995 and 1996. The external morphology showed a short, slightly decurved, narrow bill, perching feet of moderate length, a short tail, and rounded wings. Data on aerodynamic aspects reveal a high wing loading and a small degree of slotting at the wing tip. Besides, quantitative data from the field indicate that: (1) the forest under-storey was frequently used for all behaviours (foraging, eliminative, and inactive behaviours), and (2) fruits were plucked more efficiently from perches than on the wing.

Ostrich 2007, 78(2): 305–307