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Aves - Neognathae - Caprimulgiformes - Caprimulgidae - Nyctidromus - Nyctidromus albicollis

Sternum (Breast Bone) of a Nyctidromus albicollis (Pauraque)

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Species Description
The Common Paraque, the only member of its genus, is a nightjar found in southern Texas down to northern Argentina. It is found along forest edges, preferring to sleep in densely vegetated areas during the day and hunt in more open spaces at night. The Common Paraque eats insects captured during flight, but can forage on open ground as well. It possesses very small legs, but is able to jump almost half a meter into the air to catch passing insects. It has a specialized lower jaw that can open wide both vertically and horizontally, allowing the Common Paraque to eat large insects. It also possesses rictal bristles (sparse, wiry feathers along the sides of the mouth that look like whiskers) that are thought to be sensitive and aid in feeding; they may also be used to protect the face from flailing insect wings and legs.
Skeletal Elements Available

Sternum (Breast Bone)

External Links
Animal Diversity Web Encyclopedia of Life Wikipedia Pauraque Page