Tinamiformes

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Tinamiformes, a monotypic order of volant paleognaths which appear to be secondarily derived from neognathous stock, quite possibly the Galliformes, although derivation from within the lithornithid grade is also plausible. Tinamous are South American birds, of which there are around 40 species ranging over a variety of habits. They are strictly cursorial, though like galliforms they are strong burst flyers. Another curious similarity between these two orders is that in both chicks are highly precocial.

JGK

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