Pigfooted

Pig-footed refers to a descriptive term used to characterize certain bird species, particularly birds that exhibit a characteristic flat or wide foot. In ornithology, this term is often used to describe birds that have what is typically referred to as "pigeon-toes" or " pigeon-like toes," where the fourth and fifth toes, or outer toes, are partially syndactylous, webbed or generally fused, creating a broad, flat surface for balance and possibly even some propulsion through water.

This trait is evident in a select group of avian species worldwide, particularly certain bird species that frequent bodies of water and are known for their tightrope walking capabilities. One example, among others, is the gull-billed tern, Phaetusa simplex, a bird that thrives in coastal regions and requires a flat surface for maintaining balance while standing on water or rocks.

Additionally, humans experiencing flat or internally shortened toes, which may occur in people who have fluid buildup or soft tissue damage, may have pigfooted characteristics. Modern surgical correction techniques, however, can provide relief and sometimes even fully correct these conditions.