Even the silhouette of a bird in flight is a tremendous aid in identification. Not all birds get airborne the same way. Some birds need a running start to lift into the air. The diving ducks, like the White-winged Scoter, taxi across the water to gain lift. Marsh ducks, like the Mallard, spring into flight instantly.
Birds use a variety of equipment when they land.
Some birds use their outstretched feet to land. Some birds depend on their wings and tail to help them land. The Great Gray Owl's tail acts as a rudder when landing. The long, narrow, pointed wings of the albatrosses and shearwaters enable them to glide with little flapping. The Common Black-Hawk has wide rounded wings.