Bastard wing

Bastard Wing also known as the Alula is a small structure found on the leading edge of the wings of birds. It is a feature that is unique to birds and plays a crucial role in their ability to fly.

Anatomy

The bastard wing is composed of three to five small flight feathers, which are attached to a separate digit. In most species, the alula is controlled by a dedicated muscle, the alula depressor muscle, which allows the bird to raise or lower the alula as needed.

Function

The primary function of the bastard wing is to aid in flight. It helps to control the airflow over the wing, preventing stalling during low speed flight. This is particularly important during takeoff and landing, when the bird is flying at slow speeds. The alula can also be used to make minor adjustments in flight, helping the bird to maneuver.

Evolution

The bastard wing is believed to have evolved from the first digit of the bird's ancestral hand. This is supported by the fact that in embryonic development, the alula feathers grow from a region that corresponds to the first digit of other vertebrates.

In Popular Culture

The bastard wing has been featured in a number of works of fiction, often being used as a distinguishing feature of fictional bird species.

See Also

• Flight feather
• Bird anatomy
• Bird flight