Bird Wing Shapes

Different birds have one of Seven Basic Wing Shapes and Arrangements adapted for different flying styles; short, broad, cupped wings for rapid takeoff and short-distance flight; shorter and broader wings with slotted primary feathers for soaring flight; flat moderately long, narrow, triangular wings for high-speed flight; large, distinctly arched wings for flapping flight; long, narrow, flat pointed wings for gliding flight; and pointed, swept-back wings for hovering or motionless flight.