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Birds

What Is a Bird?

There are about 10,000 bird species, found in every shape and size, from the tiny hummingbird to the majestic condor. They occur in all the colors of the rainbow and are loved for their musical songs. Some birds can even mimic human speech. All birds lay eggs to incubate their young, and all have feathers—a trait no other animals can claim. Birds also have wings, evolutionary adaptations of ancient forelimbs. Most use their wings for flight, but others, like ostriches and penguins, are grounded.

Bird Features

Photo: Atlantic puffin

Atlantic Puffin

Get to know this coastal bird with the colorful beak. Learn more about the amazing “sea parrot.”

Photo: Penguin-parents

Video: Emperor Penguin Parents vs. Leopard Seals

Emperor penguin parents overcome starvation, freezing weather, and hungry leopard seals to keep their chicks well fed and safe.

Photo: A red bird of paradise spreading its wings

Feathers of Seduction

For New Guinea's birds of paradise, attracting a mate is a performing art.

Photo: A mourning dove

Everyday Explorers

Watch a time-lapse clip of mourning doves nesting on an air conditioner. Don't miss the surprise halfway through the clip!

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