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.