bird-respiratory-system-diagram
Avian Respiratory System
AVIAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Birds possess a very unique and efficient respiratory system. They lack a diaphragm, have non-expandable lungs and a system of air sacs that extend into many of their bones. Vocalization is by means of a syrinx, not a larynx as in mammals.
Anatomy
The nostrils or nares are usually located at the base of the beak. In psittacines (parrots) they are located within the area of the cere. Amazons have a structure known as an operculum inside the nare which helps prevent inhalation of foreign bodies. In most birds, the nares are readily visible, while in certain birds-such as crows-they are covered by feathers.
