Microstructure of Woodpecker’s Cranial Bone Based on Micro-computed Tomography

Abstract

The main purpose of this article is to research the microstructure of woodpeckers cranial bone on tempus, occiput and forehead. The great spotted woodpecker, the grey-headed woodpecker, the eurasian hoopoe, the titmouse and the lark bird were selected as research samples and the Eurasian hoopoe, the titmouse and the lark bird were chosen as control groups. Microstructure parameters including BV/TV, SMI, Tb.N, Tb.Th, Tb.Sp and BMD were measured based on the micro-computed tomography. After comparison with the control groups, it was found that the Tb.Th, BV/TV and Tb.N were significantly higher and the SMI was lower than that of control groups. These characteristics of woodpeckers cranial bone were developed during the evolutionary process in order to adapt to the pecking behaviours and it is an important reason why woodpeckers can resist head impact.