ADAPTATIONS FOR THE

BIRDS

Adaptations are special characteristics that plants or animals have.

These characteristics make it easier for them to survive.

For example, penguins have an extra layer of fat and special feathers.

This helps keep them warm and dry in the cold.

The beaks and feet of birds are adapted to what they eat and how they live.

Let’s read about some of the different feet and beaks that birds have.

The feet of these birds have large curved talons to catch or “grasp” their

prey.

EAGLE

OSPREY

A long back toe allows birds with these feet to grab or “perch” tightly to branches.

CHICKADEE

BLUEJAY

These feet are webbed and act like paddles when the bird is swimming

in the water.

DUCK SWAN

Three long front toes on these feet are used to scratch the soil to

uncover seeds and insects.The back toe is short.

CHICKEN

PHEASANT

The toes on these feet are long to make it easier for the bird to walk

or “wade” in the mud.

CRANE

Two toes face forward and two toes face back, making it easier for

these birds to climb the sides of trees or other vertical surfaces.

WOODPECKER

These beaks are short, thick, and conical.

They are ideal for eating seeds.

SPARROW

FINCH

CARDINAL

Sharp, curved and thick, these beaks allow the bird to tear and

shred meat!!

HAWK

OWL

EAGLE

Long, spear-like beaks are ideal for hunting and spearing fish.

CRANE

HERON

Long, thin beaks allow the birds to get to the insides of flowers for

nectar.

HUMMINGBIRD

Wide and flat or scoop shaped bills, can strain out small plants and animals

from water.

FLAMINGO

DUCK

SPOONBILL

Long, thick chisel-like beaks allow the birds to chip away wood and

tree bark.