Elementary School  

The goal of this classroom activity is to have students recognize and understand what makes a bird unique, and what characteristics birds share with other animals.

Ask students to brainstorm what comes to mind when they think of birds. If possible, provide them with pictures of different types of birds to give them some ideas. What do they notice about all birds? Do they notice anything special about certain kinds of birds?

Do all birds…

Fly?
No! Most birds fly, but not all of them. Penguins, ostriches, emus, cassowaries, rheas, and kiwis can not fly. Birds also aren’t the only animals that can fly — bats and insects fly too!

Lay eggs?
Yes, all birds lay eggs! But they aren’t the only animals that do — lots of invertebrates, fish, and reptiles lay eggs. Even the platypus, a mammal, lays eggs!

Have wings?
Yes! Birds have two legs and two wings, although they may not use them to fly.

Have beaks?
Yes! All birds have beaks. They come in many shapes, sizes and colors. But they aren’t the only animals that have beaks — turtles have a beak-like mouth too!

Sing?
No, not all birds have beautiful voices. But birds do need to communicate with other birds! Some sing, some call, some bow to each other, and some even dance!

Have strong talons?
No! Only certain birds have the strong toenails, or talons, that allow them to catch their food. These are the hawks, eagles, owls, and falcons — also known as birds of prey!

Have feathers?
Yes! All birds have feathers! This makes them unique among animals on our planet today. If an animal has feathers, it is a bird!