Apr 24, 2025
While birds are typically associated with the sky, many have adapted to life in the water. These incredible creatures are capable of swimming, diving, and hunting underwater just like fish. Here are 10 birds that are amazing swimmers
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Penguins are the most famous swimmers among birds. With their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers, they "fly" through the water, reaching speeds of up to 22 miles per hour. They use their wings like underwater flippers to propel themselves in the ocean.
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Ducks are strong swimmers with webbed feet that make them experts at paddling through the water. They can dive to find food, and their buoyant bodies allow them to float effortlessly, gliding along calm lakes, rivers, or ponds.
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Puffins may look clumsy on land, but they’re excellent swimmers in the water. Their wings are adapted to swim underwater, helping them chase small fish. They dive to depths of up to 200 feet, using their wings to help them dive deeper.
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Swans are graceful on the water and can swim long distances with ease. Their webbed feet act as paddles, while their long necks help them navigate and forage. Swans often glide over large lakes, but they’re also strong swimmers, diving for underwater plants and insects.
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Grebes are highly skilled swimmers, using their lobed feet to propel themselves through water. They have the ability to dive deep and swim underwater for long periods to hunt for fish, insects, or aquatic plants.
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Cormorants are expert divers, capable of swimming at depths of up to 100 feet. Their bodies are built for diving, with webbed feet for paddling and long necks to help them dive and maneuver. They often hunt in shallow coastal waters or lakes.
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Loons are amazing swimmers that dive deep into the water in search of fish. With their strong legs positioned towards the rear of their bodies, they are more suited for swimming than walking, which helps them to move efficiently underwater.
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Kingfishers are excellent swimmers, they dive into water from great heights to catch fish. Their sharp beaks and fast swimming skills help them quickly snatch prey underwater.
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Eider ducks are another species of diving ducks. They have specialised plumage that keeps them warm while swimming in cold waters. These ducks can dive deep to catch mollusks, clams, and other food sources from the ocean floor.
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Waterfowl, like mallards, are well adapted to life in the water. Their webbed feet act as effective paddles, and they are known to dive and hunt for food in ponds and lakes. Their swimming skills make them well-suited to aquatic habitats.
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