7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World

We hope that each of you, our readers, will enjoy and appreciate this article we present about these 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds. It was certainly our pleasure to gather the information for you. May it provide you with both education and increased awareness.

Certainly, these few species listed herein represent only a portion of the wonders found in this amazing region. It’s our belief, though, that they serve as excellent representations of the wonders found here. Check out some of our other articles for similar marvels.

Kakapo

Kakapo Facts

• The first of our choices of 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World is the remarkably fascinating species known as the Kakapo.
• First of all, the rather remarkable animal also goes by several other common names, just as many species do. In its particular case, these include names such as the night parrot and the owl parrot.
• In addition, this small, flightless bird also evolved as endemic to a highly restricted and rather isolated portion of the world. Sadly, however, this fact has not protected it as much as one might wish.
• As a result, this truly remarkable bird now sadly finds itself facing serious threats to its continued existence as a species. Its greatest threats include habitat loss, climate change, and also non-indigenous predators, such as cats, ferrets, rats, and stoats.
• Due to these various depredations, its known population only totals 148 extant individuals, as of April 2018. For this reason, among others, the IUCN now lists the amazing bird species as Critically Endangered.

Kakapo Physical Description

Perhaps the most notable fact about the truly surprising Kakapo, rather surprisingly, remains its physical size. That’s because this fascinaing animal ranks as rather small, compared to some of the other flightless birds throughout the world.

Additionally, in appearance, this fascinating avian resembles a rather rotund parrot. The species also presents a moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. The larger males average about 4.4 lb (2 kg) in weight. Meanwhile, the smaller, and slightly less rotund, females only average about 3.3 lb (1.5 kg).

In coloring, the bird most typically presents a striking combination of yellowish-green colors. Furthermore, this appears mottled with brownish gray or black on the upper side. The flank and breast also tend to have the same background colors, but the mottling consists of yellow.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Psittaciformes
• Family: Strigopidae
• Genus: Strigops
• Species: S. habroptila

Kakapo Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Most notably, the rather incredible Kakapo evolved as native solely to an extremely restricted habitat range. In fact, it only lives in what now comprises the island nation of New Zealand, near Australia. Currently, it only exists on three islands kept free of predators.

However, the tiny avian display impressive adaptability. That holds true because, in its native habitat, the avian inhabits a multitude of environments. These vary, of course, but often include forests, scrublands, grasslands, and also coastal areas.

But, although it adapts well in regards to it range, it still maintains certain behavior patterns. As a result, the bird primarily lives and feeds in a nocturnal manner. During the day it usually prefers to roost under various forms of cover.

It doesn’t let its grounded state slow it down, however. While the Kakapo remains incapable of light, it adapted into an extremely accomplished climber. The amazing creature uses this highly useful skill to find its food in the trees.

Finally, it also differentiates itself from its fellows in another manner. Unlike most other birds, this species remains entirely herbivorous. It usually feeds on a variety of seeds, leaves, fruits, and stems.

Little Penguin

Little Penguin Facts

• Placing next in this article on 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World is the tiny but awesome bird known as the Little Penguin.
• First of all, the mesmerizing Little Penguin may surprise you. That’s because its adorableness conceals several amazing facts. Most notably, though, remains the simple fact that it ranks as the smallest of all known varieties of penguin.
• Also, the marvelous avian does not live in extreme cold. Many people erroneously assume all penguins do. Rather, like some similar species, the Little Penguin actually lives in a decidedly temperate environment.
• Further, in various parts of its native range, the marvelous bird sometimes goes by other names. These include fairy penguins and blue penguins. In addition, the Maori call it the kororā.
• Quite fortunately, the marvelous animal also appears to exist in large numbers. Yet another fact that separates it from many related species. Therefore, the IUCN currently lists it as Least Concern.

Little Penguin Physical Description

First and foremost, the wonderful Little Penguin lives up to its common name. That holds true due to the diminutive size of the remarkable animal. In its case, both genders attain roughly the same height and weight.

Therefore, height averages only 13 in (33 cm), and weight averages 3.3 lb (1.5 kg), in both genders. But, the species does display sexual dimorphism. However, in this instance, it appears in the size of the bill. That of the male reaches a slightly greater length.

Further, the Little Penguin presents a unique color pattern. As a result, the head, wings, and back typically appear a distinctive blue in color. Meanwhile, the front part of the body of the bird usually displays a bright white.

Additionally, small light gray patches surround the very small ears. But it does not end there. In addition to all this, the feet also present a unique appearance. That’s because the top show a light pink, while the soles appear black.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Sphenisciformes
• Family: Spheniscidae
• Genus: Eudyptula
• Species: E. minor

Little Penguin Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Most notably, the fabulous Little Penguin has a surprisingly wide distribution range. Yet, even more amazing is the region it inhabits. This includes New Zealand and certain sections of Australia.

Within that area, however, it dwells in a specific habitat section. This mainly consists of the coastlines of the two countries. But, the unique animal also inhabits several islands within that area.

Further, like all penguins, the avian has an entirely carnivorous diet. Also mirroring related species, this mainly consists of various small types of fish. However, it also dines on small crustaceans and cephalopods.

In turn, however, the animal itself has several natural predators. But, these mainly consist of sea eagles and long-nosed fur seals. However, individuals often perish as accidental bycatch in commercial fishing nets.

Additionally, the genders mature at different ages. Females reach maturity at about 2 years of age. Yet males do not mature until the age of 3. While breeding and nesting can occur as a singly pair, it most often occurs in colonies.

Emu

Emu Facts

• The third selection for inclusion in this compendium of 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World is the amazing Emu.
• Most notably, the amazing creature remains the largest species of flightless bird endemic to its native range. Furthermore, the incredible avian also ranks as the second tallest living species of bird alive on the earth today.
• In addition, three distinct subspecies of Emu exist, all common throughout most regions of one continent. Though flightless, it remains capable of running at high speeds. Its ground speed occasionally measures as fast as 31 mph (50 kph).
• The large bird has another trait, also being known for possessing great curiosity for a wild animal. Due to this, the animal often follows other animals or even humans. Curiously, it does not sleep continuously at night. Instead, it takes multiple short naps.
• Finally, its legs developed as extremely powerful for an animal of its size and body weight. In fact, these pose a severe threat to potential predators, and even allow it to occasionally rip through metal fences.

Emu Physical Description

Firstly, an adult Emu reaches an average height of about 4.3 ft (1.3 m) at the shoulder. In addition, its extremely long neck further adds to its already quite impressive height. This often gives it a total height of as much as 6.2 ft (1.9 m).

Displaying a mild degree of sexual dimorphism, males of this animal grow slightly larger than females. A male of the species averages 81 lb (37 kg) in weight. Exceptional individuals sometimes weigh as much as 132 lb (60 kg).

Further, the wings are vestigial and possess a claw at the tip. Meanwhile, the claws on the toes may be as long as 6 in (15 cm). Given the strength of the legs, these form an extremely dangerous weapon for defense.

Finally, both the hearing and eyesight also remain exceptional, even compared to related species. Meanwhile, the bill stays short and soft. However, in stark contrast, the toes and claws are hard, and total a length of about 6 in (15 cm).

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Casuariformes
• Family: Casuaridae
• Genus: Doramaius
• Species: D. novaeholiandiae

Emu Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

First of all, the incredible Emu evolved as solely endemic to a particular swathe of Australia. But it frequently inhabits a wide variety of habitat types. These include savannas, and regions of moderately thin forest.

Additionally, the powerful bird typically forages for food by day. Being omnivorous, it eats both various plants and insects. Insect prey includes grasshoppers, crickets, and ants. It will also feed upon crops if it can reach them.

The rather amazing large bird also commonly swallows small stones to aid in the digestion of the food. Individuals also drink infrequently but generally drink large amounts when they do drink. This occurs due to the occurrence of unpredictable dry spells.

Furthermore, the Emu typically breeds in May or June, and in this species, it is the female that pursues the male. Breeding pairs remain together for approximately 5 months. Finally, eggs are quite large, weighing as much as 2 lb (0.45 kg).

Yellow-Eyed Penguin

Yellow-Eyed Penguin Facts

• The fourth of our choices of 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World for this article is the wonderful Yellow-Eyed Penguin.
• Most notably, but truly unfortunately, the rather stunning Yellow Eyed Penguin holds a special status. That holds true due to the lamentable fact that it now ranks as one of the rarest varieties of penguin in the world.
• But, regardless of its scant numbers, this amazing bird does have one thing working in its favor. The amazing bird actually has one of the longest natural lifespans of any related species. Individuals have the ability to live more than 20 years.
• However, few individuals succeed in reaching this age, due to a wide variety of reasons. But sadly, many of these reasons do not represent part of its natural environment. Yet these remain the same as those many species currently face.
• As a result, the animal faces two threats in particular. The primary threats that the magnificent creature faces include habitat degradation. But, it also suffers from the introduction of non-native predators.
• Finally, due to all these factors, it now has an estimated remaining population of fewer than 4,000 individuals. Quite understandably, because of this sad state of affairs, the IUCN now lists it as Endangered.

Yellow-Eyed Penguin Physical Description

First of all, regardless of its rather distinctive appearance, the marvelous Yellow Eyed Penguin might not stand out in a crowd. That’s because, compared to its many relatives, it remains a roughly mid-sized penguin.

However, the animal does display a slight degree of sexual dimorphism, like many animals. In its particular case, the males of the species slightly larger than females. Also, for undetermined reasons, male also usually have a longer lifespan.

In addition, mature adults most typically attain a height measuring between 24-31 in (62-79 cm). However, weights often vary significantly, depending on the time of the year, from 6.6 – 18 lb (3-8 kg).

Furthermore, its natural coloring also draws much attention. In addition to the typical black back, it also has a pale yellowish head, a multi-colored beak. All this only serves to enhance the distinctiveness of the distinctive yellow eyes.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Sphenisciformes
• Family: Spheniscidae
• Genus: Megadyptes
• Species: M. antipodes

Yellow-Eyed Penguin Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Most importantly, the marvelous Yellow Eyed Penguin, unfortunately, has an extremely restricted and rather isolated natural habitat range. In this manner as well, the fascinating bird mirrors some of its related kin.

This holds true due to the fact that it remains endemic to only specific portions of New Zealand. This area includes South Island, and also the bodies of land among the Auckland, Stewart, and Campbell Islands.

Further, this amazing avian typically nests in a habitat that might surprise many people. In fact, it most commonly prefers to make its home in regions of either scrub or forest. It also lives on gentle slopes or the shore itself, in small bays or headlands.

Similar to other related species, its diet also consists mainly of small fish caught near the seafloor. But this amazing flightless bird commonly augments its part of its diet with the occasional small cephalopod.

Finally, mankind created a special reserve for this amazing species in 2007. This special area includes a portion of its native nesting area, in an effort to assist in its preservation. To date, the benefit of these efforts remains undetermined.

Cassowary

Cassowary Facts

• Our next choice to include in this article on 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World is the remarkable avian known as the Cassowary.
• Firstly, the term actually applies to a genus of large flightless birds. Currently, three species still exist today. Also, the Southern Cassowary remains by far the most common of the three varieties.
• In addition, among known similar birds, this fascinating animal also ranks as the second heaviest, and third tallest of them all. Further, the truly unique birds generally remain quite reclusive, and also highly elusive.
• But, the species also remains quite shy, even more so than most wild animals. The large bird also continues to be well known for its ability to rapidly disappear into the dense rainforest when approached.
• Finally, the rather surprising animal generally has a remarkably shy demeanor, as well. However, if provoked the creature does has the ability to inflict serious, possibly even fatal, injuries to humans.

Cassowary Physical Description

Most notably the amazing species displays a comparatively moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. Due to this physiological trait, among all three species of Cassowary, the female typically develops as the larger of the genders.

But regardless of this, most males still typically attain a remarkable average height of around 5.9 ft (1.8 m). Meanwhile, females often reach a height of as much as 6.6 ft (2 m). Further, large females sometimes weigh as much as an amazing 129 lb (58.5 kg).

The feathers of females also generally appear more colorful than those of the males. The wings remain vestigial and extremely small. The legs of this bird develop as rather powerful. Individuals have the ability to run at speeds of as much as 31 mph (50 km/h).

It also has a long, sharp claw on the middle of each of the three toes. This claw sometimes grows to a length of as much as 5 in (12.6 cm). This serves as a powerful means of self defense, since it can strike with great force and accuracy.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Casuariiformes
• Family: Casuariidae
• Genus: Casuariius

Cassowary Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Most notably, the Cassowary evolved as endemic to the extremely wet and humid rainforest. It only occurs naturally in a few specific areas. These regions include New Guinea, northeastern Australia, and local islands.

It also has a tendency to wander into grasslands, savanna, and swampy regions in search of food. Except for mating season, the Cassowary usually lives as a solitary animal. Males appear to be highly territorial, and females seem to be less territorial.

The bird can also deliver a serious, even fatal blow with this dangerous claw. Though attacks on humans rarely occur, there have been serious injuries, even fatalities reported. Nature designed it with a means of defending itself.

Finally, the animal evolved as primarily frugivorous in its eating habits. But, sometimes individuals will also supplement that with the occasional flower, snail, frog, rodent, etc. These it feeds on opportunistically.

African Penguin

African Penguin Facts

• Appearing as the sixth selection in this compendium of 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World is yet another fascinating animal, the African Penguin.
• This intriguing product of Nature and evolution most frequently goes by the informative common name for good reason. That is not its only informal moniker, though. It also bears the names of South African Penguin and Cape Penguin.
• Among scientific professionals, however, such as researchers, its better known by another term. That’s the official species name of the Spheniscus demersus. Regardless of which of these one uses to refer to it, the bird remains an impressive creature.
• It received this tongue-twisting name due to the work of the eminent Swedish researcher, Carl Linaeus. He accomplished the first recored recognition of the animal as a separate and distinct species. The scientifically noteworthy event took place in 1758.
• It also remains well-known for a somewhat unusual physical trait. That’s its distinctive, and quite loud, donkey-like braying, unique among its kindred. Subsequent to its discovery, this led to its also earning it the nickname of the donkey penguin.
• Sadly, however, this unique avian now faces the very real threat of extinction. This fact occurs due to a rapid and still ongoing decline in population. Between 1910 and 2010, its numbers fell precipitously. That went from an estimated 1.5 million to only 55,000.
• Humans previously hunted its eggs for consumption, beginning the process of its decline. Since that time, multiple oil spills and industrial fishing have further reduced its numbers. With climate change added in, the IUCN now lists it as Endangered.

African Penguin Physical Description

Like many of its relatives, the amazing African Penguin draws the attention of those fortunate enough to encounter it. Unlike some of those same cousins, however, it does not do so due to pure physical size. That’s because this marvel of creation ranks as average sized.

The flightless bird does stand out due to another physical aspect, though. That’s irrelevant of its physical measurements. That’s true given the fact that this variety of penguin displays only a slight degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism.

Individuals of both genders, therefore, both mature and immature alike, manifest nearly the same overall appearance. The gender-based difference extends to both weight and height. Overall, however, the species measures an average of 24 – 28 in (61 – 71 cm).

In terms of sheer body mass, this avian again reaches only an average size for its kind. Fully grown specimens reach overall weights averaging between 4.9 – 7.7 lb (2.2 – 3.5 kg). Females of the species, meanwhile, tend to remain slightly smaller in both height and weight.

Exceptional individuals of both sexes of the African Penguin do sometimes occur, however, in both height and weight. Even among these rare individuals, though, neither attribute exceeds the average by any extraordinary degree. In this, it again mimics most of its cousins.

Its general appearance closely follows other penguins. The back is mostly black, and the stomach white. A black stripe and black spots dot the stomach, unique to each bird. A pink gland develops above the eyes, which plays a key role in regulating its body temperature.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Sphenisciformes
• Family: Spheniscidae
• Genus: Spheniscus
• Species: S. demersus

African Penguin Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The mesmerizing African Penguin inhabits a highly limited region of the globe. That region, however, is rather surprising, given the nature of the animal. That’s due to the fact that, as the very name implies, this particular penguin inhabits part of the continent of Africa.

More precisely, it inhabits an area off the southwestern coast of that continent. There, the eye-catching birds make their home spread across a total of 24 islands. The isles they live on dot a large area of ocean that extends from Algoa Bay, in South Africa, to Namibia.

In recent years, a few mainland colonies have begun to appear. Although the reason still remains undetermined conclusively, it seems likely due to the rapid decline of mainland predators in the region. In all areas, though, it lives along the coastline, near the water.

Again, much like related species, the African Penguin forages in the open sea. There, it mainly preys on species of small fish, crustaceans, and even small squid. The animals stay close to shore, though. Individuals rarely venture more than 12 mi (19.3 km) from shore.

Unfortuntely, its own natural predators occur both in the sea and on land, as well. These mostly include sharks and fur seals at sea. Numerous terrestrial animals threaten it while on land or nesting, however. Though agile in the water, it remains slow and vulnerable on land.

Rhea

Rhea Facts

• The seventh and last of our 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World, the Rhea, places thee only due to random selection.
• Most notably, in terms of height, the incredible Rhea ranks as the third largest bird in the world. That occurs because the creature follows only its distant relatives, the ostrich and emu, in terms of sheer physical size.
• Further, only three extant species of this animal currently remain recognized by scientists. Formerly, the same experts acknowledged two, but scientists later determined that a third existed, following extensive genetic testing.
• Also, two of the three existing species presently list as Near Threatened with the IUCN. Pending further evaluation of conservation efforts, this ranking easily might change, sadly, for the worse.
• Finally, the Rhea presently faces several distinct threats to its continued existence. The greatest dangers these incredible flightless birds face, however, consist of the dual threats climate change and habitat loss.

Rhea Physical Description

Firstly, the plumage of the marvelous Rhea generally presents a fascinating combination of brown and gray. The amazing animal also has long, powerful legs, as well as a long neck, similar to its cousin the ostrich.

In addition, the each of the three species shows a moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. Due to this characteristic, the males grow slightly larger than the females. The males sometimes attain a height of as much as 67 inches (170 cm). However, the difference in size between the the genders remains small.

Further, in weight, some members of this astounding genus occasionally weigh as much as 88 lb (40 kg). Finally, it has one more trait that distinguishes it from most birds. This fascinating animal has only three toes on its feet.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Rheiformes
• Family: Rheidae
• Genus: Rhea

Rhea Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

First of all, the amazing Rhea evolved as solely native to quite specific portions of the continent of South America. More specifically, this area includes the countries of Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Peru, and Paraguay.

Additionally, the impressive bird remains primarily vegetarian, preferring leaves, seeds, plants, and roots. It will, however, also eat a wide variety of insects, small rodents, and even reptiles. These it feeds on opportunistically.

Furthermore, the animal consistently proves itself to be quite adaptable t different areas. Nevertheless, it appears to prefer areas of open grasslands for its habitat.  Most ideally, these are placed near large bodies of water.

The Rhea is generally a silent animal, except during the breeding time. Then, the male attempts to attract a mate with a loud, booming call. The animals also remain polygamous, and the male may mate with anywhere from 2-12 females each season.

The eggs are also large in size, and clutches may number 10-60 eggs at a time. Finally, after hatching, the young reach adult size within six months, but will not breed until they are at least two years old.

7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World

We certainly hope that you have enjoyed reading this articles about 7 Outstanding Flightless Birds of the World. Each and every one of them absolutely deserves their inclusion herein. But many other varieties of flightless birds remain to be discovered, a total of 26 more, to be precise, as of now. And these are just a few among a multitude of other forms of life on this beautiful world of ours. But we must all do everything that we can to protect and preserve them all.

Check out our other articles on Rare North American Flowering Plants, 5 Phenomenal Sea Turtles, 8 South American Geological Marvels, 6 Fabulous European Lepidoptera