1. Phylum Chordata: Subphylum Vertebrata Class Aves

2. What is a bird?
Birds are a very DIVERSE reptile like animals that maintain a constant internal body temperature
Outer covering of feathers
Two legs that are covered with scales and are used for walking or perching
Front limbs modified into wings
Features are adaptations for flight
Feathers mostly of protein
Develop from pits in the birds' skin
Help birds fly and also keep them warm

3. Flight Birds have a number of adaptations that enable them to fly.
These adaptations include:
highly efficient organ systems
aerodynamic feathers and wings
strong, lightweight bones
strong chest muscles
Most birds have these characteristics, even though some birds cannot fly.
Endotherms: generate own body heat

4. Groups of Birds 30 different orders!
Largest group: Order Passerines (Perching birds)
Ex. larks, sparrows, and finches (over 5000 species)