Spur (zoology) facts for kids
A spur is a hard, pointy growth on an animal's body. It's made of bone covered in a tough material called keratin, which is like what your fingernails are made of. While claws or nails grow from an animal's toes, spurs usually grow on other parts of the foot or even on the wings of some birds. They are often found near joints.
Spurs on Mammals
Not many mammals have spurs. One of the most famous examples is the male platypus. It has a spur on the heel of each hind foot. These spurs are special because they are hollow and connected to a venom gland. When a male platypus kicks with its spur, it can deliver a very painful sting!
Echidnas, which are related to platypuses, also have spurs. However, their spurs are not venomous. Scientists have even found fossils of some ancient mammals that had spurs, showing that this feature has been around for a long time.
Images for kids
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A spur-winged goose with visible carpal spurs on its wings.
See also
In Spanish: Espolón (zoología) para niños
