In areas heavily hunted and fished, many waterfowl may swallow pellets and weights while eating plants or grit. U.S. Fish and Wildlife has passed regulations stating that since 1991 all waterfowl hunting must be done with steel shot instead of lead. Migration allows birds to spend breeding seasons in areas that supply rich food sources only in the summer and are too cold in the winter. Small birds may lose a fourth to a half of their body weight in fat reserves during migration. To learn more about migratory birds, visit the National Zoo's Migratory Bird Center .
Toucans live in South America.
Softly fringed feathers muffle sound and allow the owl to swoop down on its prey silently. The snowy owl blends in with its environment in northern North America and coastal Greenland. Beaks are adapted for many different tasks. For example, the strong, stout beaks of finches are ideal for cracking nuts and seeds. Flamingos sweep their curved, fringed bill upside down in the water to strain out tiny plants and animals.