Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Recording Single Neurons' Action Potentials from Freely Moving Pigeons Across Three Stages of Learning
Published on: June 2, 2014
Structure and neural control of the pectoralis in pigeons: implications for flight mechanics
Abstract:
The pectoralis muscle in pigeons (Columba livia) is composed of two heads (sternobrachialis, thoracobrachialis) that are separately innervated and have different fiber orientations. High-speed film and electromyographic studies of free-flying pigeons reveal that the pectoralis is activated prior to wing depression (the power stroke) and that its two heads are differentially recruited during takeoff, level flight, and landing. The electrical activity patterns of both heads support an interpretation that intramuscular elasticity provides energy storage. The pectoralis is not only the prime wing depressor but is also capable of adjusting the excursion of the wing during different phases of flight.
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