Birds are majestic creatures capable of flying great heights and long distances. There are more than 10,000 varying species of birds from the tiny hummingbird to the great ostrich spanning three metres high. It is not entirely clear where birds have evolved from. Some dinosaurs had feathers and some had a similar hip structure to modern day birds but how these dinosaurs evolved to take flight is a great mystery.
Not all birds can fly. To be able to fly, birds need very large pectoral muscles to flap their wings. Some birds like chickens and penguins have lost this ability and their muscles are not strong enough to take flight. This may be because of their habitat and a lack of predators to flee from.
Most birds feed on seeds, nectar, fruits and plants. Some larger predator birds like the kingfisher, sulid, and terns feed on fish. Penguins, Diving Ducks, and Loons are able to swim under water to catch their prey. Instead of flying they have developed the ability to navigate the waters with webbed feet.
Many small birds have been domesticated to make great pets. The parrot is by far the most well known for its ability to speak and mimic the human voice. The hummingbird is popular for its harmonious singing. Predator birds like the Eagle and Hawk are kept in zoos for display and conservation.
