Birds are incredible creatures that come in all shapes and sizes. From soaring eagles to tiny hummingbirds, the world of birds is fascinating and exciting. Here are some fun facts about birds that will fascinate kids.

Birds Come in All Sizes

There are over 10,000 species of birds globally, and each one is unique. Some birds, such as the bee hummingbird, which is found in Cuba, is only 6cm long, while the ostrich, which is the world’s largest bird, stands over 2 meters tall.

Some Birds Can Swim

While we typically associate birds with flying, some birds, like ducks, penguins, and swans, can swim. They have streamlined bodies that help them glide through the water and webbed feet that function like flippers, making them excellent swimmers.

Birds Have Unique Beaks

Birds’ beaks can come in many shapes and sizes, depending on their diet and habitat. Hawks and eagles have sharp, curved beaks for tearing meat, while flamingos have long, curved beaks for filtering algae and small insects from the water.

Birds Have Incredible Eyesight

Most birds have excellent eyesight and can see much better than humans. Birds of prey, like eagles and hawks, have particularly keen eyesight, which allows them to spot prey from far distances.

Birds Can Fly at High Speeds

Many birds can fly at high speeds, with the peregrine falcon being the fastest bird in the world. It can reach speeds of over 400 kilometers per hour when swooping in to catch prey.

Birds Build Amazing Nests

Birds build their nests from twigs, grass, and other materials. Some birds, like the weaver bird, construct elaborate nests that hang from branches like baskets, while others, like the bowerbird, build intricate bowers to attract a mate.

Birds Migrate Across the World

Many bird species migrate across the world, traveling thousands of kilometers each year to find warmer weather and food. The arctic tern has the longest migration route of any bird, traveling 71,000 kilometers annually.