Why Can Ostriches and Penguins Not Fly?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why can ostriches and penguins not fly?

The Big Idea

Ostriches and penguins are birds. But neither one can fly. Why not?

Changed Over Time

Step one: changed over time. Their ancestors could fly, but over time their bodies changed for other lives. Each one found a good way to live.

The Ostrich

Step two: the ostrich. An ostrich is large and heavy and runs very fast on strong legs. It can run about forty-five miles per hour.

The Penguin

Step three: the penguin. A penguin has stiff flipper-like wings that work like underwater wings, so it swims with them. Flightless birds live where they can find food on the ground or in the sea.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! An ostrich runs fast. A penguin swims fast. Neither needs flight. Each one thrives.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! An ostrich can run about forty-five miles per hour. Penguin wings work like flippers. Penguins seem to fly underwater. Ostriches rely on strong legs.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Draw a penguin, an ostrich, and an eagle. Next to each, write how it moves. Circle the one that flies. Which one is the fastest on land? Keep asking why, and keep exploring!

Outro

Ostriches and penguins cannot fly because their bodies changed over time for running and swimming. Each of these birds found a smart way to live without lifting off. Penguins even seem to fly underwater, which is pretty cool. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? There is always more to discover, and you are a great science explorer! Ask a grown-up to help you try the mission, and see what you can find out. Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!