Birds: Evolution, Characteristics, and Behaviors

From which group of ancient creatures did birds evolve?

• Amphibians

• Mammals

• Reptiles

• Dinosaurs

Which feature is NOT a defining characteristic of birds?

• Beaks

• Feathers

• Cold-blooded

• Lightweight skeleton

What type of diet do most garden birds have?

• Insectivorous

• Omnivorous

• Carnivorous

• Herbivorous

How do hummingbirds feed on nectar?

• By drilling into flowers

• By scooping with a pouch

• With a long, thin beak and a large tongue

• Using a short, thick beak

What is the purpose of uric acid in bird excretion?

• To aid in digestion

• To store energy

• To attract mates

• To reduce water loss

What is a 'cloacal kiss' in birds?

• A flight maneuver

• A feeding technique

• A mating process

• A type of bird song

Why do birds lay eggs instead of giving live birth?

• To increase offspring survival

• To conserve energy

• To reduce weight for flight

• To avoid predators

What adaptation helps birds reduce air resistance during flight?

• Hollow bones

• Colorful feathers

• Streamlined body shape

• Large wingspan

How do birds' respiratory systems differ from mammals?

• They use gills

• They have a diaphragm

• They have looped airways with air sacs

• They breathe through their skin

Which bird is known for having a keel-shaped sternum?

• Ostrich

• Eagle

• Penguin

• Sparrow