May 25, 2025

Bird Migration

Birds are some of the most incredible travelers in the animal kingdom. Every year, millions of birds take to the skies on long, often dangerous journeys across continents and oceans. These migrations are driven by the need for food, better climate, and ideal breeding conditions. From tiny songbirds to massive geese, the feats of endurance and navigation involved are nothing short of amazing. This quiz will test your knowledge of some of the world’s most impressive avian travelers and the science behind their long-distance migrations.



1. Which bird holds the record for the longest known non-stop migration flight?
A. Arctic Tern
B. Bar-tailed Godwit
C. Swainson’s Thrush
D. Wandering Albatross

2. The Arctic Tern migrates between which two regions?
A. North America and South Africa
B. Siberia and Australia
C. Arctic and Antarctic
D. Europe and the Amazon

3. True or False: All migratory birds fly in a straight line between their summer and winter habitats.

4. What is the primary reason birds migrate long distances?
A. To explore new environments
B. To escape predators
C. To find more food and better breeding conditions
D. To follow the stars

5. Which of the following birds is known to migrate over the Himalayas?
A. Barn Swallow
B. Bar-headed Goose
C. Sandhill Crane
D. Common Swift

6. How far can the Arctic Tern migrate in a single year?
A. About 1,000 miles
B. About 5,000 miles
C. About 10,000 miles
D. Over 40,000 miles

7. Which of these bird species uses the stars to help navigate during migration?
A. European Robin
B. American Goldfinch
C. Peregrine Falcon
D. Kiwi
8. True or False: Migration routes can be genetically programmed in birds.

9. Which bird flies in a V-formation to conserve energy during long migrations?
A. Parrot
B. Sparrow
C. Canada Goose
D. Nightjar

10. What is a major threat to migratory bird populations?
A. Cold weather
B. Forest fires
C. Habitat loss and climate change
D. Overeating

Answer Key
B. Bar-tailed Godwit
C. Arctic and Antarctic
False
C. To find more food and better breeding conditions
B. Bar-headed Goose
D. Over 40,000 miles
A. European Robin
True
C. Canada Goose
C. Habitat loss and climate change