How Many Orders Of Birds Are There

Definition of Bird Orders

Birds are classified into different orders based on various factors such as physical and behavioral characteristics, habitat, evolutionary history, and more. These orders are groups of birds that share certain similarities and differences, and currently, there are around 40 to 50 recognized orders of birds.

To further understand the different bird orders, a table can be created with columns including Order name, Physical Description, Behavioral Characteristics, Habitat, and Example Species. This table provides a comprehensive overview of the different orders and their unique features, making it easier to differentiate one from another.

In addition to these basic details, there are other unique features that can also help distinguish between different bird orders such as their diet, migratory patterns, and vocalizations. These details provide a deeper understanding of these fascinating creatures, and studying their behaviors and characteristics can be a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in learning more about the different bird orders and their unique features, make sure to explore the vast amount of resources available online and consider reaching out to birding communities for further insights. Don’t miss out on discovering all the amazing things that these feathered creatures have to offer!

Who knew there were enough bird orders to rival a fast food chain’s menu?

What are Bird Orders

Birds are classified into distinctive groups based on their characteristics such as body structure, behavior, and habitat. These groups are called bird orders. Each bird order comprises various bird species that share common traits.

To help you understand better, let’s explore a table detailing some of the bird orders along with their unique features and examples:

Bird Order	Characteristics	Examples
Passeriformes	Also known as perching birds, they have four toes on each foot and can sing melodious songs.	Sparrows, finches
Strigiformes	Commonly known as owls; they have round heads with forward-facing eyes and special feathers designed to reduce noise during flight.	Barn owl, Tawny owl
Falconiformes	Also known as diurnal raptors; they use their sharp talons to grasp prey while soaring high in the sky.	Eagles, hawks

Did you know that there are over 40 different bird orders? Each order has its unique traits that differentiate them from other orders. This classification system helps scientists study birds more efficiently by categorizing them into related groups.

Don’t miss out on the fascinating world of bird orders! Learning about these classifications can help you understand how diverse and unique these winged creatures truly are.
Because knowing the order of birds is just as important as knowing the order of your favorite pizza toppings.

Importance of Categorizing Birds into Orders

Categorizing birds into orders helps in understanding their evolutionary history and provides a framework for further research. It also aids in identifying different bird species and their characteristics.

Importance of Categorizing Birds into Orders	Columns
Provides a framework for further research	Understanding Evolutionary History
Helps in identifying different bird species	Aids in conservation efforts by studying distribution patterns

Additionally, knowing the physical and behavioral characteristics of each order can assist in predicting their ecological roles and necessary conservation efforts.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that some orders may be more vulnerable than others, so target conservation efforts accordingly.

“Why count the birds when the birds can’t count themselves? There are 18 orders of birds, but who’s really keeping track?”

How Many Orders of Birds are there

Birds are classified into different orders based on their physical and behavioral characteristics. There are a variety of ways to define and group bird orders, but a commonly accepted classification divides them into 40 different orders. These orders range from the large, flightless ratites such as ostriches, to the tiny hummingbirds, to the majestic birds of prey like eagles and hawks.

To better understand the diversity of bird orders, take a look at the following table showcasing some of the orders, their characteristics, and examples of bird species within each order:

Order	Characteristics	Examples
Struthioniformes	Flightless, large, flat breast bone	Ostrich, emu
Galliformes	Strong legs, ground-dwelling, chicken-like	Chicken, turkey, quail
Falconiformes	Sharp talons, hooked beak, birds of prey	Eagle, hawk, falcon
Passeriformes	Perching, songbirds with complex songs	Sparrow, robin, finch

It is important to note that bird classification and taxonomy are constantly being updated and revised as new research and discoveries are made. However, understanding the different orders of birds can aid in identifying and appreciating the diverse avian species found around the world.

Pro Tip: When observing birds, take note of their physical features and behaviors to help classify them into the appropriate order.

Birds may have different orders, but at least they all follow the same basic rule: don’t poop on the car.

Overview of Bird Orders

Bird Taxonomy: An Overview of Bird Orders

Birds are classified into various orders based on their physical characteristics, habits, and genetics. There are currently 40 orders of birds that have been identified by scientists. While some orders are large and diverse, others consist of only a few species.

Below is a table highlighting some of the major bird orders, along with their defining characteristics and examples:

Order	Characteristics	Example
Passeriformes	Songbirds with perching feet	Sparrows, finches, warblers
Accipitriformes	Diurnal birds of prey	Hawks, eagles, kites
Strigiformes	Nocturnal birds of prey	Owls
Charadriiformes	Shorebirds and waders	Plovers, sandpipers, herons
Columbiformes	Small to medium-sized doves and pigeons	Doves, pigeons

Apart from these popular bird orders, there are other exclusive groupings including Penguins in the Spheniscidae family.

Did you know that the smallest bird order is Aepyornithiformes which includes just one species? The elephant bird or Aepyornis is a highly extinct flightless species native to Madagascar.

Sources: ‘Taxonomy (biology)’ – Wikipedia.

What do you call a bird that’s not classified? Unidentified flying object.

Classification of Bird Orders

Birds have a complex classification system, which is divided into various groups and subgroups based on their physical attributes, behavioral patterns, and habitat characteristics. The categorization of these avian species is commonly referred to as ‘Types of Bird Orders’.

A bird order is a scientific grouping of birds that share similar physiological features. According to scientific research, there are approximately 40 orders of birds in the world. Each bird order has unique characteristics and attributes that distinguish it from other orders.

Here’s a table detailing some of these classifications:

Bird Orders	Examples
Passeriformes	Sparrow, Robin, Finch
Falconiformes	Hawk, Falcon, Eagle
Strigiformes	Owl
Galliformes	Chicken, Pheasant, Quail
Anseriformes	Duck, Goose

Each order has its own set of traits that make them distinct from one another. For instance, birds belonging to Passeriformes are characterized by their small size and cheerful voices. Meanwhile, Falcons (Falconiformes) are known for their superior hunting skills and sharp talons.

Apart from their physical attributes and behavior patterns; birds’ habitats also play a large role in determining their classification. Birds living in aquatic environments like ducks belong to Anseriformes order while those dwelling on land such as quails and pheasants fall under Galliformes.

If you want to gain information about bird orders and expand your knowledge about ornithology; try visiting wildlife sanctuaries or birding clubs where they discuss such topics with enthusiasts alike. Additionally, using reference books or online resources can also be helpful for gaining relevant insights about this subject matter.

When it comes to bird orders, let’s just say there are more types of birds than there are ways to order at Starbucks.

Number of Orders of Birds

There are numerous classifications of birds, each with specific defining characteristics and unique behaviors. The categorization of these different bird species into various groups or orders helps to simplify their study. An overview of the number of orders of birds is presented below.

A table is a great tool for quickly conveying information in a clear and concise manner. Below is a tabular presentation of the number of bird orders:

Number of Orders	Actual Data
1st Order	Struthioniformes
2nd Order	Tinamiformes
3rd Order	Rheiformes
4th Order	Apterygiformes
5th Order	Casuariiformes
6th Order	Galliformes

To delve deeper into this subject, there are some interesting facts that you may not know about birds, such as their incredible ability to navigate using the earth’s magnetic field and their capability to sleep while flying. These unique details shed more light on why they are such captivating creatures.

There is an intriguing history behind how birds were classified into different groups or orders. Their classification dates back to Aristotle’s time when he was interested in studying the anatomical structure and functions of various organisms, including birds. Since then, many taxonomists have contributed immensely through history to classify these beautiful creatures accurately.

As we conclude, learning about the different orders of birds enhances our understanding of these fascinating creatures better. Their varied behaviors and physical attributes showcase how diverse yet complex nature can be.

Why learn about birds when you can just order them?

Examples of Orders of Birds

Birds, being a diverse class of animals, are grouped into different orders based on their morphological and physiological characteristics. In understanding the category in which a particular bird belongs, it’s vital to look at its unique features. Scientists have, therefore, identified several orders that birds fall under. Here are some examples.

To further illustrate the categories of birds, here is a table showing various orders with their distinctive characteristics and families they belong to:

Order	Characteristic	Family
Anseriformes	Waterbirds/ webbed feet	Anatidae (ducks, geese)
Apodiformes	Strong wings	Hummingbird family (trochilidae)
Passeriformes	Songbirds	Passerellidae (American sparrows)
Piciformes	Strong bills	Picidae (woodpeckers)
Strigiformes	Nocturnal birds	Tytonidae (barn owls)

Apart from these orders mentioned in paragraph 2, there exists an order known as Pelecaniformes. This order includes marine and freshwater birds that include pelicans, herons, ibis and spoonbills.

In history, Francois Le Vaillant created one of the first studied classifications of bird species in 1805 using morphological differences such as beak size and shape to classify them into Simplices (small pointed beaks) or Serrati (large serrated beaks). Through constant research by scientists around the world this classification has evolved significantly.

Birds are fascinating creatures whose unique features leave us perplexed with admiration. By understanding the different orders in which they belong with their corresponding characteristics/families, we can appreciate these excellent animals better.

Why learn the characteristics of each bird order when you can just make wild guesses and call it bird watching?

Characteristics of Each Bird Order

Birds are classified into several orders based on their unique characteristics. Each order has a distinctive set of physical, behavioral, and ecological features that differentiate it from other orders. To understand each order’s characteristics, a factual table can be created. The table may include columns such as Order Name, Physical Characteristics, Range and Distribution, Diet, Habitat, and Behaviors. Additionally, some orders have unique adaptations, such as the long beak of the hummingbirds, the webbed feet of the waterfowl, and the hooked bill of the raptors. These unique features allow the birds to thrive in their respective habitats. A true fact is that currently, there are 18 orders of birds recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Birds come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: they’re all terrible at playing Jenga.

Overview of Characteristics

Professional Insights into Characteristics of Each Bird Order

Birds are a diverse and fascinating group of animals with unique characteristics that set them apart from other creatures. Understanding the characteristics of each bird order is crucial to appreciating their remarkable evolutionary adaptations and ecological importance.

An informative table highlights the distinctive features of each bird order. The table showcases important characteristics such as body size, beak shape, habitat preference, food choice, breeding behavior, flight patterns, and migratory habits. For instance, Passeriformes birds have an average body size of 12-13 cm and are known for their diverse songs and calls. On the other hand, Falconiformes birds have sharp hooked beaks that facilitate tearing flesh while hunting prey.

In addition to the valuable insight highlighted in the table, it’s worth noting that some species share unique adaptations. For example, penguins found in Sphenisciformes group have sturdy flippers that enable them to propel themselves through water at great speeds while their wings evolved into flippers to navigate underwater.

To appreciate birds better and promote their survival amid changing ecosystems caused by human actions, there are several proactive suggestions. These include supporting conservation efforts by joining local birdwatching groups or donating funds towards research aimed at preserving endangered bird species. Such recommendations work because they contribute to increasing public knowledge about bird ecology growing awareness of the importance of protecting these precious creatures’ habitats.

In summary, understanding the characteristics of each bird order is crucial to appreciate these creatures’ complexity fully. Through insights gained from tables like the one shared earlier and proactive measures adopted towards conserving crucial habitats for birds worldwide is essential for ensuring future generations can enjoy these fantastic creatures’ beauty and rich environments they thrive in. Buckle up for a taxonomy tour of each bird order – it’s like bird watching, but with more fancy Latin names.

Detailed Characteristics of Each Order

Birds are one of the most fascinating creatures on Earth. Each bird order has unique characteristics that set them apart from the rest, making them intriguing in their way. Below is a brief yet informative portrayal of the significant features of each bird order.

The Table Below Highlights Bird Orders and Their Characteristics:

Bird Order	Distinguishing Features
Passerines (perching birds)	The largest group of birds, they possess four toes that can bend backward.
Waterbirds	They have waterproof feathers and feet specially adapted for swimming or wading.
Raptors (birds of prey)	They have sharp talons, keen eyesight, and strong beaks used for capturing prey.
Owls (Strigiformes)	Nocturnal hunters with large heads and forward-facing eyes. Their wings are broad and rounded.

Many other bird orders such as pigeons and doves, cuckoos, parrots, and cuckoo rollers share distinctive attributes that make them captivating.

A Fascinating Tale:

Have you ever heard of the wandering albatross? It holds a record for having the biggest wingspan amongst all birds worldwide. The bird possesses wings up to 11 feet wide from tip to tip. That is more than twice the height of an ordinary human! Impressive right?

Even birds know the importance of dressing well, which is why some spend hours preening their feathers for a flawless plumage presentation.

Plumage

Plumage Characteristics of Different Bird Orders

Birds come in a variety of colors and patterns, making their plumage one of the most noticeable features. Different bird orders possess unique characteristics that set them apart from others.

For an overview, we have created a table showing the plumage characteristics for each bird order. The table includes columns for Order, Plumage features, Coloration, and Examples.

The Pigeon and Dove Order displays iridescence on their necks while Hummingbirds are famous for their iridescent feathers. Sparrows have striped or spotted markings while Owls exhibit feather tufts on their head.

It’s worth noting that each bird species within the order may have slight differences in coloration and pattern. However, these generalizations can guide bird enthusiasts in identification and distinguish between similar-looking species.

Don’t miss out on observing the mesmerizing beauty and diversity of birds’ plumage coloration patterns. Explore different habitats to experience various bird orders’ unique characteristics up close. From the melodious trilling of songbirds to the majestic soaring of eagles, there is much to appreciate in avian life!

Beak yourselves a question: what does a bird’s beak shape say about their diet and lifestyle?

Beak Shape

Bird beaks are a remarkable feature and can reveal important information about a bird’s diet and lifestyle. Let’s delve into the unique beak shapes found in different bird orders.

Unique Beak Shapes in Different Bird Orders

Bird Order	Beak Shape	Examples
Passeriformes	Conical	Sparrows, finches, warblers
Falconiformes	Hooked	Eagles, hawks, falcons
Columbiformes	Rounded	Pigeons, doves
Piciformes	Chisel-like	Woodpeckers
Gruiformes	Straight and Pointed	Rails

Did you know that flamingos have uniquely shaped beaks that are perfect for filtering brine shrimp from shallow water sources? Their beaks are curved down to help scoop up both food and water simultaneously.

Why do birds have different feet shapes? So they can step up their game and make us all talon-ted!

Feet Shape

Bird Orders and Their Unique Feet Structures

Birds’ feet shapes vary depending on their dietary, habitat, and behavioral needs. Each bird order has its unique foot adaptability for grasping, swimming, wading, perching, or manipulating objects. Below is a table demonstrating the primary feet shapes across different bird orders:

Bird Order	Feet Shape
Passeriformes (Perching birds)	Anisodactyl – three toes forward and one backward.
Falconiformes (Birds of prey)	Raptorial: sharp talons for grasping prey.
Pelecaniformes (Pelicans)	Palmate – webbed toes for swimming and diving.
Columbiformes (Pigeons/Doves)	Zygodactyl – two toes forward and two backward for perching in trees.

Apart from these, some birds have distinct features such as the roadrunner’s zygodactyl feet with fused first toe-facing backwards. Diving ducks have lobed toes that work like paddles suitable for underwater propulsion. Classifying birds is like organizing a rowdy aviary party, but with more scientific names and less chirping.

How are Bird Orders Classified

Bird orders are classified based on their characteristics such as their physical attributes and geographic location. This classification helps researchers and ornithologists understand the evolutionary relationships between different species and also helps them in identifying and naming new bird species.

The classification of bird orders is presented below in the Classification of Bird Orders Table:

Order Name	Characteristics	Geographic Region
Accipitriformes	Birds of Prey	Worldwide
Anseriformes	Waterfowl	Northern Hemisphere
Apodiformes	Swifts	Worldwide
Caprimulgiformes	Nightjars	Worldwide
Charadriiformes	Shorebirds	Worldwide
Ciconiiformes	Storks	Worldwide
Columbiformes	Pigeons and Doves	Worldwide
Coraciiformes	Kingfishers, Bee-eaters	Worldwide
Cuculiformes	Cuckoos and Turacos	Worldwide

Birds orders differ from one another in terms of their skeletal structure, plumage, behavior, and distribution. For instance, Passeriformes is the most extensive bird order, consisting of over 50% of all bird species in the world. Their unique feature is that they have three toes pointing forward and one reverse.

To accurately classify bird orders, scientists and researchers use molecular, anatomical, and behavioral data. These methods involve analyzing the genetic makeup, physical features, and mating behavior of each bird order. By understanding these, experts can create new bird orders and classify species accordingly.

If you are interested in learning more about bird orders, check out bird-watching clubs, online forums, or read books written by ornithologists. Also, when observing birds, be mindful of their habitat and behavior to understand better their classification and relation to other bird species.

Join me as we dive into the bird kingdom’s family tree, where even the black sheep of the family aren’t actually sheep.

Overview of Classification

This section provides an in-depth understanding of how bird orders are classified. A detailed overview of bird classification includes the arrangement, grouping, and categorization of approximately 10,000 bird species into distinct orders. Bird orders are classified based on common characteristics such as physical features, behavior, and evolutionary history.

Order Name	Number of Species	Characteristics
Struthioniformes	2	Flightless birds
Tinamiformes	46	Terrestrial birds
Galliformes	290	Ground-dwelling birds
Anseriformes	177	Waterfowl

Bird classification is complex and ever-evolving. Unique details include newer scientific methods such as molecular phylogenetics which have provided insights into evolutionary relationships between different bird groups. It has led to changes in traditional classifications, including reassignment from one order to another based on genetic similarities rather than physical attributes.

A true fact about bird classification is that the first-ever comprehensive taxonomy of modern birds was created by Charles Sibley and Jon Edward Ahlquist in their book “Phylogeny and Classification of Birds” published in 1990. It revolutionized the way scientists viewed bird taxonomy by incorporating new data and insights.

Classifying birds is like organizing a chaotic family reunion, except instead of different aunties and uncles, we have orders and suborders to deal with.

Methods of Classification

Bird Classification Methods and their Proper Use

In order to classify different bird species, there are various methods that can be used. These methods help in organizing birds based on shared characteristics and creating a hierarchy of bird orders.

Below is a table outlining some of the key methods used for the classification of birds:

Method	Description
Morphological	Classifies birds based on physical or anatomical traits
Behavioral	Considers differences in behavior and mating practices
Molecular	Analyzes DNA sequences to determine evolutionary links
Ecological	Examines an organism’s role within its environment

It is important to note that no method alone is perfect for the classification of all birds. Therefore, using a combination of these methods provides the most accurate and comprehensive classification system.

In addition to these methods, variation within orders should also be considered when classifying birds. For example, some bird orders may have numerous families while others may only have one or two.

To ensure proper classification, it is critical to consult with ornithologists and other experts in this field who can provide guidance on which method(s) to use based on specific criteria.

Don’t miss out on learning more about the fascinating world of bird classification. Enrich your knowledge today!

“Who needs Tinder when you have morphological classification to help you find your bird match?”

Morphological Classification

Morphological classification is the scientific method used to classify bird orders on the basis of their physical characteristics. Bird anatomy, skeletal structure and feather arrangement are some of the factors that form the basis of this classification method.

Below is a table showcasing several bird orders classified through their morphological characteristics:

Order	Description
Struthioniformes	Flightless birds with long legs and ostrich-like appearance
Falconiformes	Predatory birds with sharp talons and hooked beaks
Gruiformes	Terrestrial birds with crane-like appearance
Piciformes	Arboreal birds with chisel-like bills for tree-boring

Unique details regarding morphological classification include factors such as wing shape, toe arrangement, beak morphology, neck length and foot structure. The morphological features provide insight into the bird’s ecological niche and evolutionary history.

Pro Tip: Morphological classification provides only primary insights into avian classification; it is recommended to use molecular techniques for further insights into the evolutionary relationships among species. Who needs family trees when you’ve got molecular sequences? Welcome to the future of bird classification.

Molecular Classification

The molecular classification of bird orders is a crucial aspect to the understanding of bird evolution. A table showcasing the diverse Orders and their respective genetic variations would provide clarity. The coalescence-based avian tree of life and mitogenomic phylogeny, amongst others, show great strides in making sense of bird taxonomy.

The clustered categorization follows the genetic relationship between birds for each Order. It starts with ratites and tinamous at one end, followed by anseriformes, galliformes, and subsequent others. The division into these Orders is seamlessly interlinked with both molecular data as well as morphological modifications that have occurred over time.

It’s essential to note that overreliance on morphological characteristics is not enough to classify birds appropriately. This problem has been resolved due to advancements in technology, leading to improved accuracy in understanding changes across evolutionary history.

Without taking into account molecular data from genetics or physiology tests can result in disjointed conclusions regarding avian taxonomic classifications. As our knowledge about bird molecular classification continues to evolve through active research and new discoveries, we urge fellow researchers not to miss out on the profound findings awaiting discovery.

Join us in our quest for a thorough understanding of bird orders – revolutionizing fields such as medicine and conservation via this expanded knowledge base.

Classifying birds may seem like a flight of fancy, but it’s actually a complex system of organization that would impress even the most pedantic of bird enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Inference from the Avian Order:

This article explores the taxonomy of birds and their classification into various orders based on their physical characteristics, behaviour, and genetic analysis. The avian order is a vast taxonomic group classified into nearly 30 orders of birds. Each order represents a unique group with distinct features and behaviours.

The classification of birds into orders was first proposed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. Over the years, with the advent of modern techniques such as DNA sequencing, the taxonomy has been refined, and new orders have been identified.

One such order is the Passeriformes, also known as perching birds. This order is the largest with over 60% of all bird species falling under this group. Passerines are characterized by having a specialized foot structure that helps them perch on branches and wires.

The classification of birds into orders is crucial not only for understanding their evolutionary history but also for conservation efforts. By identifying birds into distinct groups, conservationists can design strategies that target specific populations, especially those at risk of extinction.

Knowledge of the taxonomy and classification of birds is continually evolving and promises to reveal exciting insights into the avian world.

Why settle for being a bird brain when you can impress everyone with your knowledge of the 23 orders of birds?

Summary of Bird Orders

For those looking to understand the bird kingdom, a comprehensive overview of avian orders is essential. Here’s an overview of bird orders found globally.

Below is a detailed table of bird orders with their distribution, characteristics, and numbers of species belonging to each order.

Order Name	Distribution	Characteristics	Number of Species
Passeriformes	Global	Largest order with over 6,000 species
Apterygiformes	New Zealand	Flightless, only has five species
Struthioniformes	Africa	Flightless
Tinamiformes	Central and South America	Flightless

Additionally, some notable highlights are worth mentioning. The Passeriformes order is the largest with over 6,000 species while the Apterygiformes order only has five species. Also some orders such as Struthioniformes and Tinamiformes are flightless.

Birds have been prevalent on earth since they evolved from theropod dinosaurs during late Jurassic time (around 150 million years ago). Many different species existed over these millions of years but unfortunately countless became extinct due to natural disasters or human activities.

To truly appreciate the diversity in nature, it is imperative to learn about the vast range of bird species that exist today which would not be possible without defining and understanding their orders first. Why categorize bird orders? So we can finally settle the age-old debate of ‘chicken or egg?’

Importance of Bird Orders Categorization.

The categorization of bird orders is crucial for understanding avian diversity and its ecological implications. By classifying birds into distinct orders, we can discern their unique characteristics, behavior patterns, and evolutionary lineage. This allows us to analyze their ecological role within their habitat and the broader ecosystem.

Importance of Bird Orders Categorization.
Column 1: Allows for identification and classification of avian species.
Column 2: Helps in the understanding of birds’ ecological roles and importance.

Moreover, bird orders provide insight into the genetic relationships among species, which aids scientists in studying avian evolution. Understanding the evolutionary process is essential to predicting future changes in bird populations due to climate change and other environmental stressors. Therefore, categorizing bird orders is crucial for enhancing our comprehension of animal biodiversity.

Historically, scientists used anatomy-based methods such as skeletal morphology to classify bird species into different orders. However, with advances in technology such as DNA sequencing techniques, taxonomy has become highly refined and accurate. The categorization system using molecular tools has revolutionized phylogenetics and challenged previously held assumptions about the evolutionary relationships among birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many orders of birds are there?

There are currently 40 orders of birds known to exist.

2. What is an order of birds?

An order of birds is a taxonomic rank used to group birds together based on shared physical characteristics and ancestry.

3. How are orders of birds classified?

Orders of birds are classified based on traditional taxonomic methods and modern molecular analysis.

4. What is the largest order of birds?

The largest order of birds is the Passeriformes, which includes over half of all bird species.

5. How many bird species are there?

There are over 10,000 known bird species in the world.

6. How do birds differ from other animals?

Birds are unique in their ability to fly, have feathers, and lay hard-shelled eggs. They also have a unique respiratory system and a lightweight skeleton.