Basic Avian Anatomy Vocab
Glucose
A sugar that acts as a very important source of energy
Motor Response
Activities that result in muscular reaction
Air Sacs
Anatomical structure in birds which allows for the unidirectional flow of oxygen throughout the body
Herbivore
Animal which feeds only on plants
Pathogen
Any disease causing agent, such as a virus or bacteria
Excretory System
System which removes wastes from the body
Integumentary System
The covering which protects animal; includes skin, feathers and claws in birds
Bronchi
Two major branches of the trachea
Arteries
Vessels which carry blood away from the heart
Veins
Vessels which carry blood to the heart
Crop
A pouch found in the esophagus of many birds that stores food for later digestion or regurgitation for offspring
Nervous System
Cells, tissues and organs within the body that respond to both internal and external stimuli
Metabolism
Chemical processes which occur in a living organism and are necessary for the maintenance of life; such as turning oxygen into carbon dioxide
Cardiovascular System
Circulatory system containing the heart and vessels which transport blood throughout the body
Grit
Coarse grained particles such as sand
Immune System
Complex set of organs and cells which identifies foreign agents and protects us from infectious agents as well as other diseases
Dermis
Connective tissue which provides the body with cushioning from stress and strain as well as housing sweat glands, hair follicles and nerve endings
Carnivore
Flesh eating or predatory animal
Skeletal System
Framework of bones which protect organs and support the body
Endocrine System
Group of glands that regulate body activity through the secretion of hormones
Calcification
Hardening or solidifying of a substance due to exposure to calcium
Neurons
Impulse conducting cells which carry and transmit electrical signals throughout the nervous system
Subcutaneous Tissue
Lowest layer of skin; provides insulation and nutrient storage
Reproductive System
Male and female organs responsible for the generation of offspring
Muscular System
Organ system containing the muscles attached to bone; allows for movement
Respiratory System
Organs which carry out the process of breathing
Epidermis
Outermost layer of skin
Digestive System
Set of organs within the body that break down and absorb food
Striated
To be marked with stripes or streaks
