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bird

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

A bird is a warm-blooded, feathered vertebrate that has wings and lays eggs. Birds are found all over the world and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colours.

Some of the most common features of birds include:

  • Feathers: Birds are the only animals that have feathers. Feathers help to keep birds warm and dry, and they also help them to fly.
  • Wings: Most birds have wings, which they use to fly. However, there are some birds, such as ostriches and penguins, that do not have wings.
  • Beaks: Birds have beaks, which they use to eat, build nests, and defend themselves.
  • Eggs: Birds lay eggs, which they incubate until they hatch.

Birds play an important role in the environment. They help to control insect populations, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds. Birds are also a source of food for many other animals.

How can the word be used?

Birds are an important part of the ecosystem.

bird

Different forms of the word

Noun:

bird (a warm-blooded, feathered vertebrate animal that typically has wings and flies).

Adjective:

birdlike (resembling a bird).

Verb:

to bird (to hunt or observe birds).

Etymology

The word "bird" has an interesting etymology. It comes from the Old English word bridd, which is thought to be related to the Old Norse word friti, meaning "to fly." The word "bird" first appeared in English in the 9th century.

Question

What birds can you name?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

What are birds classified as in the animal kingdom, and what are some key characteristics that distinguish them from other animals?

Answer:

Birds are classified as vertebrates in the animal kingdom. Some key characteristics that distinguish them from other animals include:

Feathers: Birds have feathers, which are unique to them and play a crucial role in flight, insulation, and display.

Beaks: Instead of teeth, birds have beaks or bills that are adapted to their specific diets and feeding habits.

Endothermy: Birds are warm-blooded, capable of maintaining a constant body temperature, which allows them to be active in various environments.

Hollow Bones: Birds have lightweight, hollow bones, aiding in flight and reducing overall body weight.

Oviparous Reproduction: Birds lay eggs and exhibit oviparous reproduction, where embryos develop outside the mother's body.

Adaptations for Flight: Many birds have adaptations for flight, such as strong pectoral muscles and specialised wing structures.