Claw
Claw
Claw (/klɔː/), from the Old English clawu, is a sharp, curved, pointed appendage, found at the end of a toe or finger in most amniotes (mammals, reptiles, birds).
Etymology
The term "claw" is derived from the Old English clawu, akin to the Old High German klawa, and the Proto-Germanic klawō.
Anatomy
A claw is made of a hard protein called keratin. Claws are used to catch and hold prey in carnivorous mammals such as lions and tigers. They are also used for such tasks as digging, climbing trees, self-defense, and grooming, in those and other species.
Types of Claws
There are various types of claws, including:
- Retractable Claws: These claws are present in certain species of the cat family. They remain inside the animal until they are needed and are extended by flexing a muscle in the paw.
- Semi-retractable Claws: These claws do not retract completely but can extend and retract to some degree; they are found in animals like the fox.
- Non-retractable Claws: These claws are always visible and cannot be retracted. They are found in animals like dogs and bears.
Related Terms
- Talon: A talon is the claw of a bird of prey, its primary hunting tool.
- Hoof: A hoof is the tip of a toe of an ungulate mammal, strengthened by a thick, horny (keratin), covering.
- Pincer: A pincer is a claw-like structure on a limb of a crustacean or arachnid often used to capture prey.
- Nail: A nail is a similar structure found at the tips of the fingers and toes in most primates, including humans.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Claw
- Wikipedia's article - Claw
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