Avian Olfaction

The literature and status of knowledge concerning olfactionin birds is reviewed, and the general anatomical plan of theavian olfactory chamber is discussed. Birds that show olfactoryability through the possession and utilization of well-developedolfactory equipment, or are suspect of olfactory perceptionbecause of behavioral patterns or olfactory equipment are discussed.These are: (1) the kiwi (Apteryx) of New Zealand, (2) procellariiformbirds, such as albatrosses, shearwaters, and petrels, (3) thecathartine vultures, particularly the turkey vulture (Cathartesaura), (4) the oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) of the islandof Trinidad, and northern South America, and (5) the honey guidesof the family Indicatoridae. Some new data suggesting a well-developedsense of smell in the honey guides (Indicatoridae) are alsopresented.