DESCRIPTION

The amazing variety of shapes of a bird's beak is a great way to illustrate the idea of anatomical adaptation to a specific niche. Put simply, the shape of the beak suggests how the bird might use it, or what the bird might eat.

In this activity, students will choose the right tool (beak) needed to gather their food.

BACKGROUND

This activity uses a lot of different materials, both tools and foods. It's a good idea to plan ahead in order to gather what you'll need.

RESOURCES

More examples on beaks and adaptation, from the Fernbank Science Center.

More on beak and foot adaptations, and instructions on how to draw birds, from the Norman Bird Sanctuary.