MEASURING LEG THRUST FORCES IN THE COMMON STARLING

We describe the design of a force-transducing perch which measures the reaction forces of small birds taking off and landing. In common star lings, landing forces are lower than take-off forces, because the bird may decelerate prior to landing by using its wings. Both landing and takeoff forces are significantly correlated with body mass; however, t he angles of these reaction forces show no significant mass-dependence and are not repeatable within individuals. Diversity in take-off or l anding strategy could be advantageous in confusing predators.