As I review the more than 500 species of birds I have photographed in the past 12 years, I am awestruck by many characteristics of the species. All my photos were shot during our many travels. Once of these days we will take a real birding tour. I thought I put together five distinct features of my favourite birds.
I have always wondered who made up NAMES for these birds below. I like the bird named after Odysseus’s dog, Argus.
Some of species have rather unconventional heads.
Bird beaks function primarily for eating, but they are also essential tools for preening feathers, building nests, and defending against predator.
Hornbills have big beaks for feeding, amplifying loud calls, and staying cool in hot weather. Despite their massive size, the beaks are light and strong because they have a hollow, honeycomb-like internal structure made of keratin.
Birds have different types of feet because their toes and claws evolved to match their specific habitats, ways of moving, and feeding habits. The main designs include perching feet for gripping branches, webbed feet for swimming, and talons for catching food.
