OCR Text |
Show 1902.] OSTEOLOGY OF THE FALCONIFORMES. 299 through the coracoid proper, for the passage of this nerve, is a point which can only be determined by an appeal to embryo and nestling specimens. Possibly it will be found that the foramen in the Polybori is also a coracoid foramen. The coracoid is relatively of medium length in the Falconidae, but proportionately longer in the little Microhierax. In the Buteonidse it is relatively short and stout, and very broad at the base, the distance across the latter region, at its widest part, being equal to the length of the shaft from the base to the articulation with the scapula. In Elanoides the processus lateralis basalis is very conspicuous, more so than in any other member of the Order. Text-fig. 34. Left lateral aspect of the Sternum and Shoulder-girdle oiAguila rapax. The furcula does not articulate with the carina; and the latter terminates before reaching the end of the sternal plate. Letters as in text-tig. 33. The acrocoracoid process rs large in both sections of the Order, and bears a facet for the articulation of the furcula-except only in Serpentarius, wherein this facet is wanting. The absence of a procoracoid process is sufficient to distinguish the coracoid of Serpentarius from that of the Storks. The coracoid of the Cathartse, like that of the Falcons, is relatively long. The coracoid of the Accipitres closely resembles that of the Striges. In the latter group, however-, the procoracoid process is always present; on this account, therefore, the coracoid of the Buteonine section of the Accipitres is always distinguishable. For the same reason-the lack of the procoracoid process-the coracoids of the Serpentarii and Cathartse are also easily dis- 20* |