Which birds are poor fliers and often move around by hopping or climbing?

Which birds are poor fliers and often move around by hopping or climbing?

• A. Some toucans
• B. Woodpeckers
• C. Snow geese
• D. Shoebills

Answer: (A)

Birds that don’t rely on strong, sustained flight often get around by moving through trees with short hops or by climbing. Some toucans have relatively short wings for their size and a large bill, which makes long flights awkward; they typically get from perch to perch by quick, fluttering hops and by climbing around branches when navigating the canopy. Their feet are well adapted for gripping branches, supporting this hopping and climbing style more than extended gliding. In contrast, snow geese are known for powerful migrations, shoebills are large and heavy fliers, and woodpeckers, while adept climbers, are most notable for climbing trunks rather than typical hopping in open flight. So, some toucans best fit the description of being poor fliers and moving around mainly by hopping or climbing.