There are 126 bird species that can't fly. They often live on islands with no big animals that might hurt them, so they don't need to fly. Some big birds can also protect themselves, and some live in water or are active at night.

Scientists studied how birds lost the ability to fly. Some birds, called ratites, used to fly, but after dinosaurs disappeared, they found plenty of food and grew bigger. They could then run from danger instead of flying.

Some birds use their wings for other things and changed over time. Penguins use their wings to swim, and big birds use them to balance or show off.

Let's look at seven birds that can't fly:

One bird is the ostrich.

Another bird is the penguin.

The kiwi is also a bird that can't fly.

The cassowary is a big bird that can't fly.

The steamer duck is a bird that can't fly.

The Galapagos flightless cormorant is another bird.

The Inaccessible Island rail is a small bird.

Ostriches are very big and can run fast, so they don't need to fly. They use their wings to balance and attract mates.

Penguins are cute and can't fly, but they use their wings to swim and catch fish.

Kiwis are shy and nocturnal, but they are famous. They have special feathers and a long beak to help them in the dark.

Cassowaries are big and have sharp toenails that can hurt people. They live in rainforests and are very strong.

Steamer ducks are aggressive and can't fly, but they use their wings to swim and protect themselves.

The Galapagos flightless cormorant is a big bird that can't fly, but it can dive and swim well.

The Inaccessible Island rail is the smallest bird that can't fly and lives on a small island.

These birds show that flying is not necessary to be a bird. They are unique and beautiful examples of evolution.