Megapode
The megapodes, also known as incubator birds or mound-builders, are stocky, medium-large chicken-like birds with small heads and large feet. They are included in the family of Megapodidae. They may build a pile of rotting vegetables as an incubator for their eggs.
| Megapodiidae | |
|---|---|
| |
| Alectura lathami | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: | |
| Family: | Megapodiidae Lesson, 1831
|
| Genera | |
Megapode Media
Brushturkeys can often be found in parks or gardens.
Australian brushturkey on its mound
This cross-section of a megapode mound shows a layer of sand (up to 1 m thick) used for insulation, an egg chamber, and a layer of rotting compost. The egg chamber is kept at a constant 33°C by opening and closing air vents in the insulation layer, while heat comes from the compost below.
