Evolution of Agility

The characteristic of agility is a complex one that is influenced by multiple genes and enviromental factors. These degrees of freedom and the fact that it is influenced by multiple traits makes the trait very hard to trace through evolution. In larger species greater muscle capacity allows for greater maneuverability. Meanwhile in smaller species the morphology of their limbs and other body structures allows them to turn and rotate at a greater rate. Varying species rely on the specific characteristics depending on their proportional size. One specific species of animal in which this fact is shown across multiple breeds is hummingbirds. Larger hummingbirds have proportionally larger muscle capacity compared to smaller hummingbirds. In contrast, smaller hummingbirds have specific wing morphology that imporves turning and rotation. These two facts show that agility is attributed to both biomechanical traits, structure and overall strength.