Movement in birds

MOVEMENT IN BIRDS

•    Most birds are capable of flying.

•    Birds can also walk, run, or hop on the ground.

•    Some birds such as swans and ducks can even swim in water.

•    The following features help birds to fly.

1. Birds have streamlined bodies, which makes it easier for them to move through air.

2. Their bones are hollow, which makes them lightweight.

3. They have wings, which have special feathers for helping them in flight.

4. They have powerful chest muscles, which help them in flapping their wings during flight.

•    The wings are moved down and forwards, lifting the body in the air. This movement is termed downstroke.

Downstroke

•    The wings are lifted upwards, in preparation for another down stroke. This is termed upstroke.

Upstroke