Use and function of a leading edge flap on the wings of eagles
Carruthers AC., Taylor GK., Walker SM., Thomas ALR.
In this paper we present video evidence of unsteady maneuvers in which leading edge feather deflections occur on the wings of an Eagle in free flight. High-speed video is used to analyze the use of these feathers in greater detail during landing sequences. The results suggest that the feathers are being used as a means to stabilize the wing during these unsteady maneuvers. A novel method of measuring wing profiles of a bird in free flight is outlined.