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Collins (1983) notes Chaeturinae are anisodactyl, while Apodinae is pamproddactyl. As I say below, form fits function. These differences evolved to adapt to habitat and microhabitat. Collins noted koalas and Jackson's chameleons also are pamprodactyl, and convergence between three different vertebrate classes of animals is possible morphologically.
Form fits function in raptor wings: falcons and accipiters are classic examples.
My favorite convergent bird is the Audubon's Crested Caracara, a vulture-falcon combo.
Grant
February 11 2006, 10:29:05 UTC 6 years ago
Lit. Cited
Collins, C.T. 1983. A REINTERPRETATION OF PAMPRODACTYLY IN SWIFTS: A CONVERGENT GRASPING MECHANISM IN VERTEBRATES. THE AUK 100(3): 735-737.