Air sacs: Birds have a complex system of air sacs that connect to the lungs and help circulate air throughout the body, improving respiratory efficiency and reducing weight.
Flight muscles: Birds have powerful flight muscles, particularly the pectoralis major and supracoracoideus muscles, which provide the necessary force for flapping wings and lift.
Feathers: Feathers are unique to birds and are crucial for flight. They provide lift, drag, and stability during flight, and also aid in insulation and waterproofing.
Syrinx: This vocal organ, unique to birds, allows them to produce a wide range of sounds and is important for communication and courtship.
Long neck: Many flying birds have evolved long, flexible necks, which aid in catching prey, preening, and other activities while in the air.
Keel: The keel or sternum is enlarged and serves as an attachment point for the flight muscles, providing structural support during flapping.
Strong heart and lungs: Birds have a rapid heart rate and efficient lungs, ensuring a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles required for flight.