On the ecomorphology of migrants

Abstract

A multivariate analysis of data from a wide range of avian species revealed that migratory distance was related to a high aspect ratio, long and pointed wings and well‐developed distal wing segments. Migration also appeared to set limits on the development of the hind limb and on the wing muscles not involved in forward flight. Among Sylvia warblers it is shown that habitat use and migration may constrain each other. Copyright © 1992, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved