Many birds have broad, rounded wings that help them steer and accelerate. This type of wing is common in birds that live on the ground and woodland birds that must avoid trees in flight. Owl flight The barn owl has a slow, buoyant flight. Primary flight feathers Greenfinch wing Finch flight Finches bounce up and down and usually fly above treetop level. Quick turn The greenfinch has a blunt, rounded wing shape that allows it to turn quickly in the air. Soft, downy wing coverts Greenfinches Perch to perch The roller catches small animals by swooping down on them from its perches on walls and trees. Rollers Fringed feather edges reduce air turbulence. Barn owl Muffled wings Fringed feathers muffle the sound of the owl’s wings so it can sneak up on its prey. Barn owl wing Light and dark barring Broad wing surface for manoeuvr ability Quick escape Doves and pigeons have strong wing muscles for fast take-off and acceleration up to 80 kph (50 mph). Crested pigeon wing Broad flight feathers Roller wing Roller flight The roller has a heavy up-and- down flight. Turtle dove