Birding/bird anatomy

Advertisement

Expert: - 8/15/2006


Question
what makes a bird a strong flyer, what makes one bird faster then another one. does it have to have a stronger shaft? or more barbules? what is it that makes for a stronger bird?  

Answer
This is a very long and complicated question. I'll try to give you as simple an answer as I can. A strong flier can mean one who flies fast, or long distances, or high, or against strong winds, or soars a lot, etc. It's like askign what makes a strong person (weight lifter or runner or shot putter or swimmer?) But basically, strong feathers - thicker shaft and more strengthening material in the barbs, wing shape, and breast muscles. Faster birds tend to have longer wings and birds that soar a lot have wider wings.
That helpful? Please write again if you have more questions. Roger Lederer at Ornithology.com

Birding

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Roger Lederer

Expertise

Any and all about WILD birds - the science of ornithology. Information about birdwatching, ecology, conservation, migration, behavior, banding, rehabilitation, feeding, songs, binoculars, identification, and careers in ornithology. No questions about pet or caged birds, please.

Experience

Have a PhD and over forty years as a professional ornithologist - research, teaching, author, speaker, webmaster of Ornithology.com . Have written thirty scientific papers, three bird field guides, a textbook in ecology and two recent books entitled "Amazing Birds" and "Birds of New England". Have traveled to over 90 countries watching birds.

Education/Credentials
PhD in Zoology/Ornithology; Emeritus Professor of Biological Sciences; former Dean of the College of Natural Sciences at California State University, Chico

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.