Question

Describe the aerial adaptations in birds.

Answer 1

A bird’s body is perfectly adapted for aerial life. Various aerial adaptations found in birds are:​

• Body shape: Birds have a streamlined or spindle shaped body. This means that the head and tail are narrow or pointed to minimize resistance against air.​
• Wings: The forelimbs are modified into wings and have long flight feathers on them.​
• Steering and brakes: The tail feathers control the speed and also help in steering or change direction during flight.
• Wing muscles: These are very strong, active and enlarged breast muscles that support and help in the movement of wings.​
• Cutting down the body weight: Except the wings, the rest of the bird’s body tends to be light to facilitate flight.​

1. Bones have air cavities.​
2. They excrete solid urine.