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The Life of Birds

Episode 02 - The Mastery of Flight. This episode deals with the mechanics of flight. Getting into the air is by far the most exhausting of a bird's activities, and Attenborough observes shearwaters in Japan that have taken to climbing trees to give them a good jumping-off point. The albatross is so large that it can only launch itself after a run-up to create a flow of air over its wings. A combination of aerodynamics and upward air currents (or thermals), together with the act of flapping or gliding is what keeps a bird aloft. Landing requires less energy but a greater degree of skill, particularly for a big bird, such as a swan. Weight is kept to a minimum by having a beak made of keratin instead of bone, a light frame, and a coat of feathers, which is maintained fastidiously. (from wikipedia.org)

Episode 02 - The Mastery of Flight


Go to The Life of Birds Home or watch other episodes:

Episode 01 - To Fly or Not to Fly?
Episode 02 - The Mastery of Flight
Episode 03 - The Insatiable Appetite
Episode 04 - Meat-Eaters
Episode 05 - Fishing for a Living
Episode 06 - Signals and Songs
Episode 07 - Finding Partners
Episode 08 - The Demands of the Egg
Episode 09 - The Problems of Parenthood
Episode 10 - The Limits of Endurance